TNS Appoints Tom Wheeler to Board of Directors
Transaction Network Services, a leading provider of business-critical, cost-effective data communications services has appointed telecommunications expert Thomas E. “Tom” Wheeler to its board of directors.
Mr. Wheeler, 63, has worked at the forefront of telecommunications policy and business development for three decades and is currently a managing director of Washington-based Core Capital Partners, an early stage venture capital fund. Mr Wheeler’s arrival follows TNS’ purchase earlier this year of the Communications Services Group (CSG) from California-based internet infrastructure service provider VeriSign, Inc. The acquisition enabled TNS to scale its unaffiliated SS7 (Signaling System No 7) network in the US and become a leading provider of intelligent database systems – including caller ID – to the telecommunications industry. The CSG purchase also allowed the company to enter the roaming and clearing services market provided to the wireless telecommunications sector. Henry Graham, chief executive officer and director of TNS, said: “I am delighted to welcome TomWheeler, an acclaimed telecommunications industry pioneer and policy maker, to the board of TNS. His tremendous experience and capabilities will offer a valuable added perspective to our long-term strategy, particularly in view of our recent acquisition of CSG, as we pursue our growth opportunities across the markets we currently serve and eventually into new ones.” Mr. Wheeler is the only person to be chosen for both the cable television and wireless industry halls of fame. He was associated with the National Cable Television Association for eight years from 1976, being president for the last five of these. For several years thereafter, Mr. Wheeler was CEO of several new technology start-ups, including the first company to offer high speed data delivery to home computers and the first digital video delivery service. In 1992, Mr Wheeler was asked to head the Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association CTIA), where he served as CEO until 2004. A recognized author, commentator and philanthropist, who led President Obama's transition team on science, technology, space and the arts, he also serves on EarthLink’s board of directors. Mr. Wheeler is a graduate of The Ohio State University, the recipient of its alumni medal for national and international career achievement, and sits on the advisory board of the university’s John Glenn School of Public Affairs.
