The monthly member spotlight is an opportunity to learn more about a leader at one of our member companies and showcase the work they are doing. This month, we spotlight Peter Rocca, CEO of Start Communications. Learn more about Start Communications in our member directory.
Name: Peter Rocca
Title: CEO
Company: Start.ca
Start has been based in downtown London for over 20 years. We provide fast and friendly internet service across Ontario, including home, small business and enterprise.
1. What is your role and what is your favorite part of your job?
My role covers a little bit of everything, from corporate direction to project management to working closely with some of our larger customers. My favourite parts generally involve building, either by bringing a new product or service to market or sometimes just digging in with integration coding.
2. If you could have coffee with any business leader or industry expert, who would you choose, and why?
Elon Musk. Not only is he an incredible visionary, but his drive and ability to execute is inspiring.
3. What is the #1 business book/blog/website you would recommend?
I generally get my news from a number of various sources rather than focusing on any particular site.
4. Looking at your company’s future, what are you most enthusiastic about?
There are a few exciting projects we’re working on. One that I can share is our fibre build out in the London downtown core. We’ve been busy over the past 6 months with about 20 different projects to bring our fibre directly to the door of our neighbours in the core. This allows us to offer incredible speeds and full control over the customer experience, all at an amazing price.
5. What excites you most about the local tech community?
It’s exciting to see the explosion of successful tech companies in the community over the past few years and how much collaboration and support there is within the industry.
6. What causes or community activities is your company involved in?
We helped bring the free wireless throughout the downtown core, have supported some local technology incubators and also participate in a number of music and sporting events such as Rock the Park, London Knights, Comicon, etc. Next year we’re continuing to expand and will be involved with even more great community events.
