Leading Edge Data Centers (LEDC) has announced the appointment of Joe Craparotta as CEO.

The company said Craparotta is set to lead the Australian regional Edge data center operator in expanding its footprint across Australia to meet growing AI, cloud, and Edge computing demands.

Founded in 2018 in Sydney, New South Wales, LEDC provides colocation services from facilities across Australia.

Craparotta has more than 35 years of experience in the technology and data center industry. He was previously VP cloud & service provider at Schneider Electric.

LEDC founder Chris Thorpe moves into the role of executive vice chairman.

Drew Kelton, LEDC chairman, said: “[Craparotta’s] deep industry expertise and strong relationships across the cloud, AI, and data center sectors make him exceptionally well placed to lead the business through its next phase of growth.”

LEDC’s footprint currently spans south and west Australia and comprises operational, in progress, and planned Edge data centers. Most of the company’s operational data centers are located in the southwest while many of the planned data centers extend further north along the west coast from Gladstone to Cairns.

On becoming CEO, Craparotta said: “I’m honored to lead LEDC at such a pivotal moment for the business and for regional Australia. This company has built a genuinely differentiated network and a strong foundation. I look forward to working with the team, our customers and our partners to help shape the next generation of regional digital infrastructure across Australia."

Outgoing CEO Thorpe added: “Joe has been a trusted advisor to the business and brings outstanding industry experience. I look forward to continuing to work alongside him as we build on the strong foundation we’ve created and deliver the AI digital infrastructure regional Australia needs.”