We’re digging deep into the world of Aquatrols’ Sports Turf Sales Manager of North America, Ian Grove. Get to know him better below.
What is your role at Aquatrols?
I am the sports turf sales manager for North America
How long have you been with the company?
3.5 years
Where did you grow up, and what brought you to your current city?
I was born in Raleigh, NC and grew up in High Point, NC. Currently, I live in Midlothian, VA. My wife and I moved up here 18 years ago as a relocation effort in my DSR role with a turf distribution company.
What does your typical day look like?
Well, being a former golf course superintendent, my days usually starts pretty early. I make a cup of coffee, check emails, do daily stretches, and then walk the dog before it’s off to the races! Ever since taking on the new role with our Sports Turf segment, it has been truly remarkable. It’s like I get to start all over again. From development of our new business, to meeting new friends and partners, it has been the excitement I have been looking for.
What drew you to this field, and how did you get started?
Being the son of a golf professional, it seems I’ve always been around the turf industry in some way. From growing up on golf courses, to eventually attending NC State University for turfgrass, this industry has always felt like home. GO PACK!
What’s your favorite part of the job or most rewarding project you’ve worked on?
Hands down nothing beats being in the field. Growing and developing our new Sports Turf segment has been so rewarding. Our new product release for sports turf managers called Xstatic has been an incredible addition. From development to launch it has been an unbelievable journey, and we are just getting started!
How do you see the industry evolving in the next few years?
The amount of new technology that has been introduced to the turfgrass industry over the last several years has been amazing. From autonomous equipment, wireless soil moisture sensors, drones, to new turfgrass varieties, the industry is definitely trending to a new era.
Is there a product or innovation from Aquatrols you’re particularly excited about right now?
Wow, I thought you would never ask. Of course, it has to be our new product “Xstatic”. First of it’s kind for synthetic turf, should be a fun ride!
Do you have a favorite industry tip or tool?
There are so many good social outlets for turfgrass managers to be a part of these days. The ability to gain access to information at the touch of a button has never been easier. With that being said, try The Aquatrols Company social outlets for the latest and greatest in soil moisture products.
If you weren’t in this field, what would you be doing instead?
Great question! Hard to think of a specific field considering I’ve been in the turf industry pretty much all of my life, but growing up I did have the kid dream of being a marine biologist one day.
What’s one surprising thing people might not know about you?
Not sure there is anything surprising about me that people might not know? I’m pretty outgoing and sociable. I love being with my family, traveling and meeting knew people.
What is your favorite hobby, activity, or creative outlet?
Well besides taking the boat out with the family, fishing or even chasing a golf ball around sometimes, I have really gotten into cooking. I follow on social media several home cooking sites. I love trying to cook southern cuisines as well as many Cajun dishes.
First concert?
Huey Lewis and the News with opening act the legend Stevie Ray Vaughn! Let’s just say the opening act was the main reason we were there.
Coffee or tea?
I love both, but coffee in the morning is a must.
Favorite food?
Southern soul food without a doubt!
Bucket list location to visit?
St. Lucia has been on the Grove family bucket list for some time now. Hopefully soon we can cross that one off.
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