Marachel L. Knight

Delivered strategic initiatives, products and services that span across the enterprise and managed prioritization of AT&T’s multi-billion-dollar portfolio to optimize customer experience and maximize value.

Created and directed long-term operational and technology strategy for capital investment, wireless towers/roaming negotiations, global network plans and large-scale mobility and broadband connectivity projects, including FirstNet (public safety wireless network), 5G (fifth generation wireless), fiber, and transport. Led collaborative process with key factory executives to identify cost drivers and pain points.

Designed global engineering strategy and operational infrastructure to support multi-billion-dollar, multi-technology mobility, broadband, and wireline enterprise services. Led engineering and operations of AT&T’s global networks including mobility core, cloud, and IP core as well as advanced technical tier 3 support, incident management, and business continuity planning. Led business continuity response resulting in outstanding customer experience and recognition on a national scale. Earned #3 spot on Forbes Corporate Responders List for Nation’s Top Employers’ Response to COVID-19 Pandemic. Rapidly deployed continuity plans, including new security technology for transitioning corporate employees to work from home, built network capacity enabling remote work/school, and developed safety protocols for employees and customers. During 2020 record year for hurricanes, wildfires, and other natural disasters, successfully deployed 260 network disaster assets while exceeding critical customer performance objectives by 900 basis points.

Launched United States’ first standards-based 5G network in half the projected time, and months before competitors; earned distinction as Nation’s Fastest Wireless Network. Responsible for the design, engineering, build, performance, and operation of AT&T’s access network including 4G LTE, 5G, small cells, and fiber technologies. Managed multi-billion-dollar capital budget and integrated acquired wireless network assets.

Contained growing operational, network, and equipment costs, capturing almost a half-billion dollars in savings. Made one of the largest corporate renewable energy purchases at the time (520 megawatts of wind power), resulting in $300M+ in savings and positively impacting environment. Held overall responsibility for technology planning and engineering of AT&T’s wireless and wireline network including expansion of 4G LTE mobile broadband network and AT&T Integrated Cloud; delivering 5G Evolution, U-verse TV, and Business Wi-Fi; and design of network solutions and customized antenna solutions for venues.

Developed virtualized mobility functions contributing to 75% software-defined networking corporate goal. Delivered multiple new products, including IoT LTE CAT-M, Fixed Wireless Internet, first cellular Apple Watch and iconic iPhone X. Led architecture and design of AT&T's wireless network, wireline access, mobility services, mobile device technology, and tools enabling IoT and faster Internet speed.