He was the head of the FCC that first erased Title II broadband classification, resulting in death threats for the end of “Net Neutrality.” Starting April 1, he’ll be the President/CEO of the wireless industry association.
CTIA has named Ajit Pai for the role, and will see him exit private investment firm Searchlight Capital Partners, instrumental in Univision Communications’ merger with TelevisaUnivision and the now-concluded leadership of Wade Davis as TelevisaUnivision’s first CEO.
Pai will succeed the retiring Meredith Attwell Baker, who has served in the role since 2014.
In prepared comments, Pai said, “I am honored to lead CTIA. The wireless industry is a key driver of technology innovation and investment in the U.S. And it helps advance America’s global competitiveness, national security, and economic security. Together, we will work to ensure that our nation’s spectrum and infrastructure policies promote U.S. global wireless leadership and keep consumers on the leading edge of innovation. I am thrilled to get to represent the companies across our country that are creating jobs, growing the economy, and benefiting hundreds of millions of consumers every day.”
CTIA Chairman of the Board Laurent Therivel, who serves as CEO of UScellular, commented, “Ajit has played a pivotal role in leading our nation’s effort to promote broadband deployment and expand commercial access to spectrum. He is the proven leader we need to head our industry at this critical stage. CTIA is excited to welcome Ajit to help usher in an exciting new era for the wireless industry.”
Pai served in senior leadership roles at the Commission for nearly a decade. In particular, he was designated by President Trump as Chairman in 2017. In that role, he not only killed “net neutrality” but promoted U.S. leadership in 5G — a key desire for CTIA.
Pai was appointed by President Obama in 2012 to serve as a Commissioner at the FCC, and previously served in key positions at the U.S. Department of Justice and in the Senate, Pai has also served as a partner in the law firm of Jenner & Block.
CTIA’s executive search was conducted by Korn Ferry International.
