Director of Fiber

Job Title: Director of Fiber

Department: PIE&G Connect

Reports To: Chief Operating Officer

FLSA Status: Exempt

Prepared By: S. McGreaham

Prepared Date: September 15, 2025

Summary: The Director of Fiber Networks provides executive leadership and overall direction for PIE&G Connect, the cooperative’s broadband division. This role oversees all aspects of fiber strategy, planning, construction, operations, installations, and customer service. The Director ensures that the fiber network is reliable, scalable, and financially sustainable, while delivering high-quality service to members. The position requires strong leadership, business management, and project prioritization skills, as well as the ability to coordinate internal managers and subcontractors to achieve PIE&G’s broadband goals.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: (Other duties may be assigned.)

- Develop and implement long-term strategies for PIE&G Connect, including network build-out, service expansion, and technology adoption.

- Oversee and align the work of all managers within the fiber function.

- Lead the planning, construction, operation, and maintenance of the fiber optic network, ensuring safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance.

- Establish and manage budgets, financial forecasts, and capital investment strategies for the fiber division.

- Direct and prioritize multiple fiber projects, balancing resources to meet member needs and organizational goals.

- Oversee contractor performance and ensure subcontractor work meets quality, safety, and service standards.

- Ensure compliance with all applicable state, federal, and industry regulations governing broadband networks and operations.

- Develop and maintain strong vendor and supplier partnerships.

- Monitor key performance metrics, including network uptime, service quality, installation timelines, cost efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

- Report regularly to the COO and executive leadership on fiber progress, challenges, and opportunities.

- Coordinate with other PIE&G departments to ensure seamless integration of broadband projects with electric and gas operations.

- Provide leadership for internal fiber managers, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.

- Engage with regulators, industry associations, community partners, and members to advance PIE&G Connect’s mission.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Supervises all managers within the Fiber function, including the Fiber Network & Business Operations Manager and the Fiber Outside Plant Operations Manager. Oversees subcontractor relationships and performance through management staff.

Education and/or Experience

Required: Bachelor’s degree in Telecommunications, Engineering, Business, or a related field.

Preferred: Master’s degree (MBA, Telecommunications Management, or similar).

Experience: Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in broadband or fiber operations, including at least 5 years in a leadership role. Must have demonstrated experience managing managers, leading cross-functional teams, overseeing multiple projects, and delivering results on schedule and within budget.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

Valid drivers license required

Project Management Professional (PMP) or similar certification preferred.

Broadband or telecommunications industry certifications a plus.

Physical Demands

- Prolonged periods of sitting and working on a computer.

- Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds occassionally.

- Regularly required to talk, hear, and use hands and fingers.

- Occasional standing, walking, reaching, and stooping.

- Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

- Office environment with controlled temperatures and lighting.

- Frequent travel to fiber construction and installation sites.

- Exposure to outdoor weather conditions during fieldwork.

- May require evening or weekend work to meet project deadlines or respond to service issues.

- Exposure to standard office equipment such as computers, telephones, photocopiers, and filing cabinets.