Ian Groves secures second GTIA council term for UK

Ian Groves, Managing Director of Start Tech, has been elected for a second term on the Global Technology Industry Association (GTIA) Executive Council for the UK and Ireland. Groves will serve a three-year term on the regional council, with his appointment determined by a vote of the GTIA membership.

In his role, Groves will collaborate with industry leaders across the UK and Ireland, as well as engage with international counterparts through the GTIA's global organisational structure. According to Start Tech, his focus will be on strengthening the association's regional impact and fostering cross-border cooperation within the tech sector.

GTIA runs regional communities that bring together suppliers, service providers and other organisations working in the IT channel. The association uses Executive Councils in each region to guide priorities and represent local member interests.

Groves said the re-election reflected his commitment to the organisation's work with the IT channel in the UK and Ireland.

"I'm incredibly proud that I've been elected for another three-year term on the UK & Ireland Executive Council for GTIA. GTIA exists to help people and businesses in the IT channel grow through trusted insight, collaboration, and community leadership. "Continuing this work means representing the priorities of the UK & Ireland IT community, building on the momentum we've created, and helping advance the conversations and initiatives that matter most locally and across the broader channel. "If you're looking for ways to accelerate your business and your career and you aren't yet involved, I'd be happy to discuss it further," said Ian Groves, Managing Director, Start Tech.

Role and remit

GTIA positions its Executive Councils as a regional leadership layer for its member communities. It said the councils advocate for the needs of members in their markets and feed into the association's strategic work.

The association also uses member events and topical interest groups. It said members use these forums to exchange operational insight and discuss shared challenges across the IT channel. It cited emerging issues and opportunities as regular topics.

GTIA Chief Community Officer MJ Shoer said Groves would contribute to the organisation's work across the region.

"We are thrilled to welcome Ian Groves to the GTIA Executive Council and are grateful for his leadership and dedication to our mission to help the IT channel connect and grow," said MJ Shoer, Chief Community Officer, GTIA. "As a key influencer for GTIA in the UK and Ireland, he will help advance our regional strategy, champion the needs of local members, support the community, and contribute to events and initiatives that foster meaningful growth across the IT channel," said Shoer.

Start Tech profile

Start Tech operates as a managed service provider based in Shropshire. The company said it was established in 2000 and supports customers across the UK from Shrewsbury.

The business works across IT operations and related services. Start Tech cited connectivity, telephone systems, cloud computing and cyber security among its service areas. It also said it added AI integration as a service line in 2025.

Start Tech said it supports thousands of users across the UK. It also said it holds National Cyber Security Centre certified Cyber Advisor status. The company said the certification involved independent assessment of its ability to provide practical support and its understanding of Cyber Essentials technical controls.

Groves has led Start Tech during what the company described as a 25-year history as an MSP. The company also referenced industry awards for Groves and for the business, including recognition as one of Britain's 50 Best Managed IT Companies for three consecutive years.

Channel focus

Industry associations such as GTIA have increased their focus on local chapters and peer forums as managed service providers respond to shifts in demand. Areas such as security requirements, cloud adoption and operational automation have become regular themes in partner communities.

GTIA said its regional communities across multiple markets operate under the guidance of Executive Councils, with programmes built around events and interest groups that gather members for discussions on issues affecting the IT channel.