Founder Profile
Gerry Whent
Last reviewed: October 2026 · By Swet Parvadiya
Who is Gerry Whent?
Gerry Whent is a founder of Vodafone Group Plc, which was founded in 1984 with Sir Ernest Harrison.
- Company founded
- Vodafone Group Plc
- Founded
- 1984
- Co-founders
- Sir Ernest Harrison
Background
A Racal executive from its radio business who was put in charge of the company's cellular venture when it bid for a UK licence.
Founding Story
Sir Gerald 'Gerry' Whent (1927-2002) led Racal's cellular business from the 1982 licence win through the 1985 network launch, and became chief executive of Vodafone Group after its 1991 demerger from Racal. He retired at the end of 1996 and was succeeded by Chris Gent. Gerry Whent was born in 1927.