Shirley Bloomfield returns to NTCA as new CEO

The National Telecommunications Cooperative Association (NTCA) did not have to look too far for their new CEO. Instead, they turned to NTCA veteran Shirley Bloomfield, who is rejoining the organization after two stints serving as VP of Federal Relations at both Qwest and, most recently, Verizon.

Shirley Bloomfield, NTCAPrior to leaving the NTCA in 2007 to join Qwest's regulatory team, Bloomfield spent 20 years at NTCA in various roles including Vice President of Government Affairs and Association Services. Bloomfield, who will take up the CEO reins in July, is replacing the retiring 25-year NTCA veteran Michael Brunner.

Harry Thomas, NTCA Board President, said in a statement that the board of directors "determined that Shirley has a perfect blend of qualities and experiences to be the next CEO of NTCA", adding that "she will be able to hit the ground running and bring great stewardship to NTCA."

Bloomfield's appointment is significant because it comes during a time when rural broadband has become a top priority for regulators and lawmakers alike. Given Bloomfield's clout with lawmakers in Washington, D.C., she'll be able to serve as a voice for NTCA's independent telco members.    

For more:
- see the release here
- VON/xchange has this story

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