CompTIA appoints Nortec IT's David Norris chair of ANZ Executive Council

CompTIA has appointed Nortec IT's founder and managing director David Norris as chair of its ANZ Executive Council for 2024.

He will work alongside Pax8 executive coach Maria Armstrong, who has been appointed the council's vice chair for 2024.

Norris becomes chair after serving as a member of the Executive Council since November 2021. 

He has over four decades of IT industry experience, having spent 32 years at the helm of Sydney-based managed security service provider Nortec IT.  

Norris and Armstrong's first committee meeting will take place on 13 February, which will provide an overview of CompTIA membership and benefits.

"With David’s appointment as chair of the ANZ Executive Council, and Maria’s appointment as vice chair, we feel honoured to have a combined wealth of community, connections and business experience from both contributing as our representative member leaders for our CompTIA ANZ Community," CompTIA's ANZ and ASEAN member communities manager Rose Stamell said.

"Contributing to any community is something that comes naturally to some, and not to others. David and Maria both stand out when it comes to community and leading the way."

"The opportunity to give back and help others who may be operating a very small business, all the way through to getting the best from relationships and connections with vendors and suppliers come across as a natural extension of who David & Maria are."

Armstrong has spent over two decades in the IT industry, having assumed her role at Pax8 in August 2022 after serving as CEO of ICT not-for-profit SMBiT Professionals for over three years.

"Having worked in the trenches of the IT industry for many years, I would like to start sharing my experience and knowledge with other organisations," Norris said.

"I have been on the CompTIA Executive Council for the last two years. During this time, I could see that CompTIA provides incredible resources and guidance for managed service providers (MSPs) in crucial areas."

"This resonated with me as running an MSP is often challenging. It was an honour when CompTIA asked me to lead the committee."

"My focus will be on maximising value and highlighting CompTIA benefits for Australian MSPs. CompTIA gives MSPs a platform to meet with and have discussions with vendors and distributors."

"Additionally, I will advocate for bringing two prominent CompTIA programs to Australia. One of them is a support infrastructure for MSPs. This offers invaluable assistance to those navigating the aftermath of a cyber incident."

"Secondly, the 'CompTIA TechGirlz' program empowers high school girls to explore the exciting world of technology. This initiative is aiming to bridge the gender gap in our industry."

"I look forward to working with Rose, Maria and the rest of the exceptional, talented and dedicated council members."