Joseph R. Zell joined Grotech as a General Partner in 2002. At Grotech Ventures, Joe focuses on investment opportunities in the communications, networking, software and outsourcing sectors. Joe currently serves or has served on several portfolio company boards including Aztek Networks, BroadSoft, buySAFE, Collective Intellect, Fieldglass, Giveo, Hatteras Networks, HiveLive, Logrhythm, SkyeTek, Rebit, USinternetworking and Ziptronix.
Prior to joining Grotech, Joe built an extensive, 20-year operating background in communications and data networking, including nine years with US West Communications (which is now Qwest Communications), where he was instrumental in building US West’s Data Networking Division from startup to $2.5 billion in revenue and was the president of the division for four years. While at US West, Joe was also responsible for managing a $30 million strategic investment fund. It was in this capacity that he began his relationship with Grotech as a result of US West’s investment and his board seat at a Grotech portfolio company, USinternetworking. Most recently, he served as chief executive officer of Convergent Communications. Prior to US West, he held a variety of management positions at WilTel, LDXNet, United Technologies Communications, MCI Communications and Xerox Corporation.
Joe graduated Magna Cum Laude from Missouri State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing. He is an active member of the Rocky Mountain chapter of the WPO (World Presidents Organization). He also serves on the advisory boards of Silicon FlatIrons, Tie Rockies, and the Tech Venture Center.
