Peter Groom - Co-Founder and Technology Advisor

Professional Overview

Peter Groom is an accomplished technology and business leader with over 30 years of experience driving innovation and operational excellence across diverse industries. As the Co-Founder of SwanKnightDistillery, he leverages his deep expertise in IT assessment, due diligence, and strategic advisory to guide the growth and success of the business. Additionally, Peter serves as a Technology Due Diligence, IT Assessor, Mentor, and Board Advisor at Network Knowledge Ltd, applying his extensive knowledge to support organizations in optimizing their technology infrastructure and strategies.

Experience Summary

Current Roles

Co-Founder, SwanKnightDistillery (2022-Present)

Responsible for co-founding and overseeing the strategic direction of a new premium spirits company, leveraging his technology expertise to drive operational efficiency and digital transformation

Leads the design and implementation of the company's technology stack, ensuring seamless integration and scalability to support business growth

Provides strategic guidance and mentorship to the leadership team, drawing on his extensive experience in the consumer goods and technology sectors

Technology Due Diligence, IT Assessor, Mentor and Board Advisor, Network Knowledge Ltd (2008-Present)

Conducts in-depth technology due diligence and IT assessments for organizations, identifying risks, opportunities, and strategic recommendations to enhance operational performance

Serves as a trusted mentor and board advisor, offering invaluable insights and guidance to help businesses navigate complex technology and digital transformation challenges

Collaborates with a diverse range of clients, from startups to large enterprises, to optimize their technology infrastructure and align IT strategies with broader business objectives

Career Progression

Prior to his current roles, Peter has held several high-profile interim leadership positions, including:

Interim Group CIO, ODEON & UCI Cinemas (2015-2018): Responsible for leading the successful transformation of the company's IT function, driving operational efficiency and enhancing customer experiences through technological innovations

Interim MD, Arden Consulting Services Ltd (2014-2015): Provided strategic leadership and oversight to the consulting firm, overseeing the delivery of complex technology projects and driving business growth

Interim CTO, Alexandalexa.com (2014): Spearheaded the development and implementation of the company's core technology platform, ensuring seamless scalability and operational excellence

Early in his career, Peter held various IT and consulting roles, including positions at lastminute.com, Sportingbet Plc, and Credit Suisse First Boston, where he demonstrated his expertise in network engineering, systems management, and digital transformation.

Academic Background

Peter holds a strong academic foundation, having attended Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys, where he developed his analytical and problem-solving skills.

Areas of Expertise

IT assessment and due diligence

Technology strategy and implementation

Digital transformation and operational optimization

Interim leadership and C-suite advisory

Mentorship and board-level guidance

Consumer goods and technology industry expertise

Professional Impact

Throughout his career, Peter has made significant contributions to the success of the organizations he has worked with. Notable achievements include:

Driving a successful IT transformation at ODEON & UCI Cinemas, resulting in enhanced customer experiences and operational efficiency

Providing strategic leadership and oversight that contributed to the growth and success of Arden Consulting Services Ltd

Spearheading the development and implementation of Alexandalexa.com's core technology platform, ensuring scalability and operational excellence

Conclusion

With his extensive experience, diverse industry expertise, and proven track record of driving technology-enabled innovation and operational excellence, Peter Groom is a valuable asset to organizations seeking to optimize their technology infrastructure, align IT strategies with business objectives, and navigate complex digital transformation challenges. As he continues to build on his success as the Co-Founder of SwanKnightDistillery and an advisor at Network Knowledge Ltd, Peter remains committed to leveraging his expertise to help businesses thrive in the modern, technology-driven landscape.