Zen has appointed Justin Fielder, an industry veteran with over 20 years’ experience, as its new chief technology officer (CTO).

Justin brings a wealth of knowledge to the role, having previously been a main driving force behind pioneering internet service provider Easynet, the first telecommunication company to implement Local Loop Unbundling (LLU). Easynet was sold to BSkyB in 2005, and the network still forms the backbone of Sky’s residential broadband service.

The similarity between Easynet and Zen was a prime factor in tempting Justin to relocate from his home in the South East.

“I see a lot of Easynet in Zen,” says Justin. “Easynet was operating at a larger scale but this company has all the pieces in place, and has just doubled its LLU footprint. There are big gaps in the market and major opportunities for Zen, so it’s an exciting time to join the business.”

He adds that Zen has “huge latent capability” and believes that one of his major functions will be to get the best out of a talented workforce.

“It’s my job to unleash the cleverness and capability of the people we already have at Zen. Even at this early stage I can confidently say that I have inherited a highly skilled, knowledgeable, capable team which I aim to inspire and support. I always encourage openness and collaboration and believe that is the best way to drive the business forward.”

Justin also points to recent investments that have given Zen the largest independent LLU network in the UK and one of the most advanced core and edge networks in Europe.

“Zen is an amazing success story and I think my experience of growing a similar business at Easynet can help the company fulfil its ambitions. We can swiftly automate everyday back-end processes, freeing up technical staff to focus on long-term projects for the benefit of the business.”

He will also work with chief executive officer Richard Tang and the senior management team to build a series of strategic plans to drive Zen’s continuing evolution.

As well as the potential he sees at Zen, Justin is also excited by the chance to move to the Greater Manchester region and become part of the ‘Northern Powerhouse’. Though mostly based in London up to now, Justin has travelled globally for work and the attractions of Manchester and the North were a large factor in his decision to relocate.

Richard Tang believes Justin’s appointment is a big step forward for Zen. He says: “There are very few CTOs in our industry with Justin’s level of experience. We are very fortunate to have him on board. He is already adding significant value to Zen, and will play a critical role in delivering our ambitious future plans.”

Ends

For further information:

Please contact Hugh Wilson, press officer, Zen Internet. Hugh.wilson@zeninternet.co.uk 01706 902000.

Editor’s Notes

Zen Internet is a telecommunications and internet service provider (ISP), providing a full range of data, voice, hosting and infrastructure services to homes and businesses across the UK.

The company delivers excellent customer service and technical support. Zen has won many awards for excellent services including PC Pro’s Best Internet Service Provider, the UK IT Industry Award for Services Company of the Year, a UK Customer Experience Silver Award for Technology & Telecoms, and was recently named a Which? Recommended Provider for Broadband Services.

Zen Internet employs more than 400 staff and last year (2016) generated revenues of £57m.

Zen is a Sunday Times 100 Best Companies To Work For.