In this new role, Waters will lead the company’s global networks business, which includes fibre solutions, transport, enterprise, and strategic networks businesses as well as network operations and security.
“Jack’s leadership will continue to be instrumental as we fully leverage our global fibre footprint to provide solutions to the world’s most innovative and impactful companies,” said Dan Caruso, chairman and CEO of Zayo. “He has put a foundation in place, including the regional and strategic fibre network teams, which will be key to driving momentum and further unleashing the value of our network.”
Before his promotion, Waters served as Zayo’s chief technology officer and president, since August 2016. During this time, Waters drove the organic and inorganic growth expansion of the company’s fibre network, integrating six company acquisitions including Electric Lightwave, Optic Zoo, and Spread Networks. In addition, he and his team have continued to enhance Zayo’s network through unique routes, high-fibre counts and high density in large metro areas.
Prior to this, Waters held numerous leadership roles at Level 3 Communications including chief technology officer. He has been with Level 3 since it first started and oversaw much of its engineering, network and operations functions during its first 18 years of business.
Waters began his career at SURAnet, the Southeastern University Research and Academic Network and was a member of the team responsible for InternetMCI.
Earlier this month, Zayo rejected an offer from a private equity investor, and a hedge fund has urged CEO Caruso to sell the company.