Breaking Barriers and Building Futures: The Inspirational Journey of Jo Wimble-Groves
Jo Wimble-Groves is not your average business leader. A co-owner of Active Digital, an award-winning telecommunications company, a champion for women in business, an international speaker, and an author, Jo’s career is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of saying ‘yes’ to opportunity. But her success wasn’t built overnight—it was crafted through determination, risk-taking, and a commitment to exceptional service.
From Teenage Entrepreneur to Industry Leader
Growing up with two brothers in Kent, Jo developed a fearless attitude early on. Whether riding motorbikes or playing sports, she embraced risk-taking and perseverance. Academic struggles, compounded by her parents’ divorce at age 15, taught her to lean into her strengths: creativity, social connection, and humour. “I wasn’t an academic,” she reflects, “but I learned to focus on what I could do—like drama and English—and push through the rest.”
Jo’s business journey began at just 16 when her older brother Richard invited her to help build what would become one of the UK’s leading, independent telecommunications firms. Armed with nothing but a Yellow Pages directory and a telephone, she cold-called businesses to sell mobile phones, often facing rejection but refusing to be deterred.
“For every person that put the phone down, I’d call another,” she recalls. “It didn’t bother me at all. You just have to keep going.”
Customer Experience as a Differentiator
That relentless drive laid the foundation for Active Digital’s success. Rather than competing with high street giants, Jo and Richard made a strategic decision to focus solely on business clients, prioritising a premium service model that set them apart from competitors.
Customers were frustrated by long wait times and impersonal support from larger providers, Jo prioritised creating a “gold-standard” experience.
“We decided we wanted to be the best in customer experience,” Jo explains. “And that meant going the extra mile—something larger providers often couldn’t do.”
This led her to pursue industry accolades, not for trophies, but to validate their approach. Winning a global customer service award in Las Vegas became a turning point: “It showed we could compete on the world stage while staying true to our roots.”
Their commitment paid off, culminating in global recognition when Active Digital won an international award for customer service at the Stevie Awards in Las Vegas—a defining moment in their journey.
Photo Credit: Image Provided by Jo Wimble-Groves The Power of Innovation and Purpose
Technology is ever-changing, and Jo ensures Active Digital stays ahead of the curve. From AI-driven solutions to digital innovation workshops, the company is constantly evolving. A recent partnership with digital innovation expert Ant Morse enables businesses to assess their tech needs and future-proof their operations.
“We offer a free 20-minute digital innovation session to help businesses understand where they are and where they need to be,” Jo shares. “No one wants to be left behind in this fast-moving landscape.”
Her passion for meaningful innovation extends beyond business. Active Digital has recently partnered with Internet Matters to promote online safety for children and families — a cause close to Jo’s heart as both a business leader and a mother.
“We have a responsibility to help parents navigate the world of digital safety,” she says. “There’s so much more we can do to educate and protect.”
Rise of the Girl: Advocating for the Next Generation
Beyond the boardroom, Jo is an advocate for young women, using her platform to empower the next generation. Her book, Rise of the Girl, was inspired by the conversations she had with her own daughter about confidence, resilience, and ambition.
“I wanted to write something that would reach young women and parents,” Jo explains. “The book is built around seven key conversations that can help shape a girl’s self-belief and future.”
Her advocacy work extends to speaking engagements, school visits, and mentorship, encouraging young girls to take risks, embrace challenges, and see failure as a stepping stone to success.
“You don’t thrive in your comfort zone,” Jo says. “You have to push yourself. That’s where the magic happens.”
Photo Credit: Image Provided by Jo Wimble-Groves Balancing Business, Family, and Wellbeing
As a mother of three, a business owner, and a passionate advocate for women, Jo knows the importance of balance. She openly shares her journey of learning to say no, prioritising self-care, and leading by example.
“You have to know when to say yes and when to say no,” she advises. “Women often put themselves at the back of the queue, but looking after yourself means you can show up better for everyone else.”
An advocate for movement and mental health, Jo trains regularly, incorporating weightlifting and running into her routine. She also leads by example within her company, encouraging her team to take wellbeing days and promoting a culture of work-life balance.
“Movement is medicine,” she says. “Whether it’s sport, a walk, or just taking time out—it makes all the difference.”
What’s Next?
Jo continues to push boundaries. Active Digital is growing, her speaking career is expanding, and her advocacy work is gaining momentum. With exciting partnerships, continued innovation, and an unwavering commitment to her values, Jo shows no signs of slowing down.
Her mantra? “Always do your best. Whatever that looks like, give it your best shot.”
And that’s exactly what she’s doing—one bold step at a time.
Book Recommendations: Words of Wisdom from Jo
Jo is an avid reader and has drawn inspiration from books that have shaped her mindset and approach to business and life.
One of her top recommendations is Becoming by Michelle Obama, which she describes as a powerful and inspiring read that delves into resilience, leadership, and personal growth.
Another book that had a profound impact on her is On Becoming Fearless by Arianna Huffington which explores the importance of well-being and redefining success beyond just work achievements.
Additionally, she praises Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven, a concise yet impactful book about discipline, daily habits, and the power of small actions. For Jo, books are not just about knowledge but about perspective shifts, helping her refine both her personal and professional approach.
Plus don't forget Jo's book…in hardback, on audible and kindle, Rise of the Girl: Seven Empowering Conversations To Have With Your Daughter
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