FairPoint's reputation is not exactly outstanding in Vermont, so maybe that's why the company is appointing Michael Smith as Vermont State President. Smith, a Vermont native, will oversee the ILEC's regulatory issues, government relations and economic development in Vermont.
Overall, Smith has a rather impressive resume that includes stints in various Vermont political positions including the state's House of Representatives, Hardwick Town Manager and Secretary of Administration in Vermont State Government.
This is the second recent appointment FairPoint has made in its Vermont region. Earlier this month, FairPoint named Beth Fastiggi as vice president of government relations, Vermont. Fastiggi, who spent 20 years overall with FairPoint in various roles at the former Verizon and New England Telephone, will oversee FairPoint's relationship with Vermont government official and serve as a point of contact for Vermont lawmakers, staff and state agencies.
Given FairPoint's lackluster relationship with Vermont telecom regulators, perhaps the ILEC wants to make amends with two executives that have knowledge of the region--something the ILEC hopes will win back the trust of consumer and business customers throughout its New England region.
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