GTCR Snaps Up Innovative Systems and Installs Former Comcast Exec as CEO
A Major Move in Broadband Software
GTCR, the Chicago-based private equity firm, has purchased Innovative Systems from Alpine Investors. Along with the acquisition, GTCR announced that former Comcast executive Scott Alcott will lead the company as CEO. The move signals a new growth phase for Innovative Systems, a provider of telecom software known for its OSS/BSS platforms and payments solutions.
Who Is Innovative Systems?
Founded in 1998 and headquartered in Mitchell, South Dakota, Innovative Systems develops OSS/BSS software—short for Operations Support Systems and Business Support Systems. These platforms help broadband providers and utilities handle the nuts and bolts of service delivery, from billing and payments to customer account management. Instead of juggling multiple disconnected systems, clients get one integrated environment that cuts cost and technical headaches.
GTCR’s Leaders Strategy
The acquisition falls under GTCR’s Leaders Strategy, a model that pairs seasoned executives with established businesses. In this case, Scott Alcott brings more than 30 years of telecom and software experience to the table. His most recent role was Chief Information Officer at Comcast, where he oversaw the company’s infrastructure, software development, and system operations during a major digital transformation. Before that, he held leadership roles at Belgacom Group, now Proximus Group, where he helped modernize broadband, mobile, and video services.
What Makes This Deal Stand Out
Innovative Systems has carved out a strong position among regional broadband providers, cooperatives, and municipalities across the United States. Its offering isn’t just software—it combines end-to-end operations, payments, and 24/7 support. That kind of package appeals to smaller service providers who often lack the resources to maintain complex in-house platforms. With GTCR’s backing, the company gains the capital and strategic direction needed to scale further.
Comments from Leadership
GTCR executives highlighted Innovative Systems’ differentiated software, calling out its ability to deliver seamless operations for rural broadband and utility customers. They also noted the potential for growth through both product development and mergers and acquisitions. For his part, Alcott expressed excitement about joining a team already known for reliable service, stating that the partnership with GTCR will open the door to nationwide expansion.
A Pattern of Industry Investments
This isn’t GTCR’s first play in telecom or software. The firm has a history of investing in vertical market software companies such as Lexipol and Once For All, as well as telecom infrastructure providers like Point Broadband and Clearwave Fiber. Its track record in payments technology, including prior investments in Worldpay, Paya, and RevSpring, aligns with Innovative Systems’ integrated payments model. Put simply, GTCR knows this space and has a roadmap for scaling companies like Innovative Systems.
Looking Ahead
Alpine Investors exits after supporting Innovative Systems through years of growth, but the company’s story is far from finished. With Alcott at the helm and GTCR’s resources in play, the next chapter will likely focus on expanding the software’s reach, strengthening integrated payment capabilities, and exploring new market opportunities. For regional broadband providers—many of whom face rising demand and tighter margins—the timing could not be better.
GTCR’s acquisition of Innovative Systems combines capital, leadership, and proven technology. By installing Scott Alcott as CEO, the firm is betting on a leader with deep telecom roots and a record of guiding large-scale digital initiatives. Innovative Systems already provides mission-critical software to hundreds of providers nationwide, and with GTCR’s involvement, its influence is set to grow. For broadband providers, the message is clear: the tools to streamline operations and billing are getting stronger and more widely available.