Posted: 23-Jan-26
Location: Herndon, Virginia
Type: Full Time
Recruiting is now underway for a bold, visionary Chief Executive Officer to lead NRTC through its next chapter of growth, innovation, and impact.
The National Rural Telecommunications Cooperative (NRTC) is a member-driven, technology-powered national cooperative serving more than 1,500 electric and telephone member organizations across rural America. For decades, NRTC has helped rural communities punch above their weight—delivering broadband, smart grid, mobile, and managed technology solutions purpose-built for rural utilities and the people they serve.
Reporting to the Board of Directors, the CEO will lead a nationally dispersed organization of approximately 800 employees and work in close partnership with member-owners to ensure NRTC remains the trusted technology partner for rural America. This is a rare opportunity to build on a strong foundation while reimagining how a cooperative can lead at the intersection of energy, broadband and emerging technologies.
The Opportunity
The next CEO will not simply steward the organization—they will help define its future. As rural broadband, smart grid, and digital infrastructure take center stage in national policy and economic development, NRTC is uniquely positioned to lead. The CEO will shape strategy, accelerate innovation, strengthen member value, and elevate NRTC’s role as a national partner for rural communities.
Key Responsibilities
- Set and execute a forward-looking strategy in partnership with the Board of Directors
- Lead a high-performing executive team and oversee day-to-day operations of a complex, national enterprise
- Ensure long-term financial strength, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence
- Deepen relationships with member-owners, industry partners, regulators, and policymakers
- Champion innovation across electric utility, broadband, telecommunications, and managed services solutions
- Foster a collaborative, values-driven, high-performance culture across a distributed workforce
The Ideal Candidate
- A proven senior executive with leadership experience in telecommunications, electric utilities, technology, or closely related sectors
- Understanding of broadband, utility operations, infrastructure, and cooperative business models
- Strategic, financially astute leader with strong governance and board engagement experience
- Compelling communicator and relationship-builder with credibility among members and industry stakeholders
- Trusted, ethical leader with a genuine passion for strengthening rural communities
Why NRTC
This is a once-in-a-career opportunity to lead a nationally respected cooperative at a pivotal moment. The next CEO will help ensure rural communities are not just connected—but competitive, resilient, and ready for the future.
Submit cover letter and resume to:
Lori Fischetti, President
Sycamore Business Solutions
Exclusive Search Partner to NTCA – The Rural Broadband Association