Verizon's David Small to head wireline in front-office reshuffle

Verizon said Executive Vice President David Small will shift from the company’s wireless division to lead its global Wireline Network Operations (WNO) organization as the front office reshuffles following the hiring of Ronan Dunne.

Dunne stepped down from O2 UK earlier this year after an eight-year stint as CEO, and Verizon named him executive vice president and group president of its wireless business Tuesday. Small, who had been EVP for wireless operations, will be responsible for wireline networks including the development and implementation of One Fiber, the company’s efforts to leverage common wireline and wireless fiber assets across the business.

Small replaces Bob Mudge, who will oversee both the integration planning and execution of XO Communications and the effort in Boston to build a FiOS foundation that will eventually support the carrier’s 5G efforts. The moves take effect immediately.

“Bob is the most capable leader to stand up these two strategic, network-centric projects,” said John Stratton, executive vice president and president of operations for Verizon, in prepared remarks. “David brings his combined knowledge and extensive experience from both the wireline and wireless networks which will be instrumental to harness the full potential of One Fiber.”

Verizon said the One Fiber initiative and the Boston effort will be consolidated under the WNO division following the close of the XO acquisition.

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Verizon names former O2 UK CEO Dunne president of wireless