New Year, New CEO for Alaska Communications
Photo Credit: Alaska Communications
Alaska Communications has a new top executive. The Anchorage-based telecom hired Paul Fenaroli as CEO and president. This leadership transition follows the departure of former CEO Matthew McConnell, who completed a one-year tenure.
In this role, Fenaroli leads strategy development and implementation, operational execution, and culture of the company. The former Anchorage telephone utility is an affiliate of Massachusetts-based ATN International and operates a robust and advanced statewide fiber network and a highly diverse undersea fiber optic system.
“We are excited to welcome Paul Fenaroli as our new CEO,” says Board Chair Brad Martin. “Paul brings a wealth of experience in corporate strategy, operational leadership, and a deep understanding of how to drive growth while maintaining a strong customer focus. His leadership will play a key role as we continue to build critical infrastructure and foster strong relationships in the Alaska market. We are confident that Paul will help steer Alaska Communications forward and deliver long-term value to our stakeholders.”
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January 2026
Prior to joining Alaska Communications, Fenaroli served as chairman and CEO at Kansas-based healthcare data provider Examinetics. Before that, he was managing director of Verus Strategic Advisors, working with CEOs, boards and financial sponsors of medium and large sized companies around the nation in growing their businesses and creating value for stakeholders. Fenaroli has also been a partner in the Boston Consulting Group, chief strategy officer at two public companies, and a CPA with Ernst & Young.
Fenaroli earned a bachelor’s degree in business and economics from Lehigh University in Pennsylvania. He holds an MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he was named a Russell Palmer Scholar.
“I am honored to lead Alaska Communications at this pivotal moment,” Fenaroli says. “The company plays a crucial role in providing mission-critical infrastructure and services that connect Alaskans and support the state’s economy. I look forward to working alongside the talented team at Alaska Communications to continue driving innovation, operational excellence, and growth as we strengthen our relationships with customers and communities across the state.”
Fenaroli is married to his wife Karen, an executive recruiter, and has two grown daughters and a Wheaten Terrier named Fergus. He enjoys golf, Formula 1 racing, and English Premier League soccer.
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We’re honored again this year to celebrate our partnership with Junior Achievement of Alaska, a nonprofit that educates local youth about enterprise, business, money, and financial literacy. In the special section, three Junior Achievement of Alaska students weigh in on their experience with the exceptional volunteers and teachers involved with the program.
And in Industry Support, we explore the range of varied services that industry in Alaska requires, from mancamps to spill response to off-grid energy solutions.
Outside the special sections, make sure to check out the 2026 Economic forecast, where Alaska leaders share their insights on what may lie ahead in the coming year. Enjoy!