TELECOMMUNICATIONS veteran, Damian Blackburn, is the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT), as of April 13, 2021.
GTT made this announcement in a statement released to the public on Tuesday. According to the release, Blackburn has over two decades of experience leading major mobile, internet and TV operations and technology start-ups in competitive Caribbean, the Americas and European markets.
“Damian is a highly experienced telecoms leader who has the vision to grow GTT and deliver on the changing needs of our customers and the country,” Brad Martin, Chairman of GTT’s Board of Directors was quoted as saying. “His impressive career has included running companies, building and managing mobile networks, leading growth initiatives, and more. One of the most consistent themes of his work is that he’s been a customer service champion at every level. With a track record of operating highly-reliable networks and improving customer experience, Damian will accelerate GTT’s customer-focused mission,” he said.
Most recently, Blackburn served as CEO of Aliv, the second mobile telecommunications company licensed in The Bahamas. Throughout his career, he also held key leadership and CEO positions at Digicel, Virgin Mobile, Vodafone/Orange and the BT Group; roles in which he lead strategic business and operational development activities across multiple jurisdictions.
“It’s an honour to lead a company that has long served the people of Guyana and is such an integral part of the country’s economy and culture. My goal is to listen to our customers and work with our incredible team to make sure that we deliver the country’s vision of exceptional technology and service to meet current and future needs. The company has built a strong foundation, and with a sharpened focus on the needs of our customers, we will rise together with Guyana,” Blackburn expressed.
As Guyana’s economy transitions and presents expanded opportunities for investment, growth and job creation, ATN has decided to create a new initiative under the leadership of outgoing GTT CEO Justin Nedd. As ATN’s new Vice President of Strategic Programs, Nedd will focus on cultivating additional ATN investments, including in Guyana.