Former Openreach MD Becomes CEO of Altnet ISP ITS Technology

The ITS Technology group, which is an alternative network provider that has deployed a number of fixed wireless and fibre optic broadband networks around the UK, has appointed Daren Baythorpe (Openreach’s former BCD Managing Director) to be its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Interestingly Daren only joined the ISP in October 2016 as an advisor to the board, before later accepting the role of Managing Director in July 2017. All this happened at around the same time as the operator signed off on a fresh investment of £2.25m from Maven Capital Partners.

Fast forward just half a year and Daren, who has previously also held senior positions at both BT Consumer and Severn Trent Water, is now the company’s new CEO.

Daren Baythorpe said:

“I am delighted to be appointed as Group CEO and I am looking forward to leading the company through the next phase of its development. My priorities will include delivering our strategy, continuing to grow and realise our huge potential in the connectivity marketplace, and delivering on our vision to supply superfast connectivity where it is needed.

I am keen to capitalise on the incredible work the ITS team has done to establish the company as one of the fastest growing alternative network providers in the UK market, and particularly their work to become an industry front runner of innovative concession agreements with local authorities.”

Kevin Gaskell, Chairman of ITS Tech, said:

“I am delighted to welcome Daren into the role of CEO. Daren has already had a hugely positive impact on the company since he became part of the senior management team last year.

With his extensive experience in the sector, he will help us continue to extend our market position and to build an even greater business.”

The update makes no mention of former ITS Tech CEO, Roy Shelton, who had been with the company since its birth in 2011. On his Linkedin page Roy says, “Following 6 long , hard , successful and fun years, I have decided to step down as CEO of ITS. I would personally like to thank all of our customers, supply side partners, our shareholders and our talented team for all their handwork and sacrifice which they have given over the many years of loyal service.”

At the time of writing Companies House list Roy as being one of ITS’s active directors (MD).