Meet the Executive Team Behind Global Data Systems
Joe Young, CEO/CRO
Joe is a 30-year IT industry veteran and a lifelong Bostonian. He has been the CEO of Global Data Systems for over 20 years and has guided the company through many stages – from startup to industry leader in the managed services space.
Joe has developed a reputation as an individual who understands technologies and how to apply them to meet the needs of the industries and clients Global Data Systems serves. He has successfully overseen the development and market strategies for the company’s managed services & cloud services. Over the years, Joe has executed three successful strategic acquisitions for GDS.
Outside of GDS, Joe enjoys spending time with his family. He also enjoys golfing with his grown children, Boston sports and traveling. On bright sunny days, Joe can be found on his Harley and in dealerships across the country looking for his next ride!
Ed Powers, President/COO
Ed Powers started his career in the accounting and business management field. After 11 years in the roles of Controller at O’Reilly Lumber Sales, Chief Financial Officer for US Fence and Chief Financial Officer for Project Pros, Ed started SOS Computer Center, Inc. – a Computer Sales and Service Organization.
In 2003, SOS Computer successfully merged with Globalnet Physician Services, and in 2009 GDS acquired the IT and hosting services of GlobalNet Solutions, Inc., thus beginning Ed’s tenure at GDS. Ed quickly took on the role of Director of Technical Services. Working with the Executive Management Team at GDS, Ed helped grow our healthcare IT vertical solutions.
In 2012, Ed was promoted to Vice President of Technical Services and continued to focus on building GDS’s Technical Assistance Center (TAC) into a world-class service organization. In 2016, Ed moved into the President & COO role at GDS to ensure that all of our services are delivered in accordance with our core values.
Ed has become the company’s Chief of Culinary Services as well! On many occasions, Ed has created meals that rival some of the best restaurants in Boston for the GDS team. A self-taught chef, Ed enjoys creating distinct and delicious flavors from his gourmet kitchen!
Tom Clemson, CFO
Tom joined Global Data Systems in 2000 and served as VP of Operations, Chief Operating Officer and now as Chief Financial Officer. Tom’s experience in organizational, financial and operational functions has helped shape GDS into what it is today.
Tom’s prior work history is comprised of Medtronic, Physio-Control, Eli Lilly, Loudoun Memorial Hospital, White House Communications and the US Navy. Tom comes to GDS having directed and participated in several acquisitions, involving both private and public companies, and working with five US Presidents while serving at the White House Communications Agency.
Some of Tom’s personal highlights include traveling to six continents and visiting every state in the nation. His leisure activities include time with his family, exploring new destinations, spending time with his dog, projects around the house, politics and history.