NetCarrier Names Doug Derstine as CEO, Signals Focus on Cloud and AI Services
NetCarrier appointed telecommunications executive Doug Derstine as president and chief executive officer on June 5, 2026, replacing Brook Lenfest in the role. Lenfest remains chairman but steps away from day-to-day operations.
Derstine brings 25 years of experience in telecommunications and technology infrastructure. Most recently, he led WANRack as CEO and board member, overseeing growth and operational expansion. Earlier roles include chief operating officer at FirstLight Fiber and multiple executive positions at Windstream and PAETEC, where he managed sales, operations, managed services and wholesale units.
The shift reflects a broader industry trend: communications providers are investing heavily in automation, cloud services and AI to compete in an increasingly crowded market.
What Derstine Plans to Focus On
NetCarrier plans to invest in cloud communications, AI-powered voice automation, managed services and channel development under Derstine's leadership. He cited these same areas as key opportunities when announcing his appointment.
"I'm excited to join NetCarrier at such an important point in the company's evolution," Derstine said.
Why Lenfest Stepped Back
Lenfest said his time became divided among multiple business and philanthropic demands, prompting the search for a new leader. He described Derstine as having "a proven track record of growing companies."
The company disclosed no changes to ownership, governance structure or strategic financial objectives as part of the transition.
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