East Yorkshire-based rural broadband provider Quickline Communications has appointed Darryl Petch as its new Chief Technology Officer (CTO).

Mr Petch succeeds Ian Smith who served as CTO for two years and played a key role during a period of rapid growth for Quickline.

With more than 15 years of extensive experience in the telecommunications and IT sectors, Mr Petch brings a wealth of knowledge to his new role. Prior to joining Quickline, he held senior positions at Borderlink/Gofibre and M247.

Mr Petch is no stranger to Quickline, having recently provided technology support to the company working with the Project Advisory Group (PAG). His familiarity with Quickline’s operations and experience within the industry in senior roles make him well equipped to lead the company’s technology initiatives.

In his new capacity, Mr Petch will oversee all aspects of Quickline's technology operations, including network design, systems development and technical support.

His appointment comes at a pivotal time for Quickline, following the recent award of a Project Gigabit contract totalling £60m in government subsidies to provide broadband connectivity to around 28,000 homes and businesses in the rural West Yorkshire and York areas.

Mr Petch said: “I was fortunate to work with Quickline to support on the technology aspects of the bidding process for Project Gigabit and was delighted to see such potential and ambition in the company.

“Whilst supporting the development of the technology side of the business to deliver this game-changing Project Gigabit contract, and working on other technology projects across the UK in recent years, I have gained some great insight and new perspectives which will serve me well at Quickline.

“It’s a really exciting time to join the business and I’m looking forward to working alongside the fantastic team here as we continue to expand our networks and deliver fast and reliable broadband to rural, under-served communities across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.”

Quickline CEO Sean Royce added: “I’m thrilled to welcome Darryl to Quickline's executive team. His proven track record and deep understanding of the fibre industry will be instrumental in driving our growth strategy forward.”

Beyond his professional endeavours, Mr Petch is actively involved in supporting education initiatives as a school governor and volunteers in grassroots football as both a coach and referee.

Credit: Hull News & Pictures

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