Robert ElcombeGeneral Manager, DataCentre220
Newly appointed General Manager, Robert Elcombe, brings to the company exceptional knowledge built upon decades of experience. During his time in school, he generated early basic programs on ticker tape for the local university’s mainframe to run. From these very early foundations, he assisted a cluster of schools with the development of Internet connections, caching servers, and web security.
Robert describes his position as a “dream job” and is proud to bring his passion in the industry to build upon the world-class reputation of DataCentre220. Plans are already in place to expand the facilities and services, including additional rack space to meet customer demand and a team of skilled IT professionals to assist clients with their colocated computing equipment.
How can telecommunication technologies help humanity?
The acquisition and sharing of knowledge and ideas have the demonstrated ability to transform the world. Real-time information sharing has the potential to bring the world together. Not only in collaboration – for example, the current efforts to create a COVID-19 vaccine – but also in education, a passion of mine. World-class teachers could be available to anyone with an Internet connection and a shared forum to assist with structured learning. There are so many positive developments still to come.
What network-related development will have the greatest impact in our industry?
Availability of connected networks at an ever lower price point. While airborne, I was having a conversation with my wife in her car. Just a few years ago this would have been unaffordable and unachievable for mass consumption.
Is it important for companies to continue to innovate their organization or offerings, and why?
Of course it is. The speed and rapid development of all technology, especially communications, is such that any static idea is rapidly superseded by faster, cheaper, and more functional products. Companies that do not adapt and innovate become a shadow of their former self. History is full of examples of companies who fell foul of their belief that they did not need to innovate: Kodak, Encyclopaedia Britannica, Hoover. Being a member of PTC helps to keep abreast of developments and innovations, the first step to meeting client expectations.
What value does PTC hold for you/your company?
Being a PTC Member provides the opportunity to develop symbiotic relationships and the ability to enable each other to grow and develop resources. Working together, we have the ability to be stronger as a whole and the opportunity to break down physical and political barriers to assist with the development of our industry.
How does PTC fit with your company’s goals or your overall career purpose?
Our philosophy “stronger together” requires participation with organizations that are able to bring together leaders in our industry. Organized events are the breeding ground for ideas, developments, and joint ventures.
What advice would you share with current and future graduates interested in this field?
Have a passion and a dream. Work toward the fulfillment of your goal every day, accept your successes, and learn from your failures. In a fast-paced environment, we do not know the technology of tomorrow. The industry needs imaginative ideas to help create endless opportunities.
About DataCentre220:
We are located in the center of Auckland’s CBD, within walking distance to many offices and easy transportation. As a customer, you can enter the data center and access your equipment 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. DataCentre220 is New Zealand’s most connected data center. We provide a secure, controlled, carrier neutral environment, lit with multiple core fiber vendors including: Vector, Spark, Vodafone, CityLink, IX, Megaport, and NZIX. Here you can colocate your servers and connect to your chosen ISP, providing the best transits and value. With the benefit of no monthly cross-connect fees, we have become the most connected data center in the country.
