In the ever-evolving world of telecommunications, Neville Ray stands as a true luminary, leaving an indelible mark on T-Mobile's journey to becoming the nation's top network provider. With over three decades of experience in designing, deploying, and managing wireless networks, Ray's leadership and vision have been instrumental in T-Mobile's ascent to the pinnacle of the industry.
Ray's T-Mobile odyssey began in April 2000, when he joined the company that was then known as VoiceStream. Over the years, he ascended the ranks, becoming Chief Technology Officer in December 2010 and ultimately President of Technology in December 2019. His responsibilities encompassed the national management, strategy, and growth of T-Mobile USA's cellular network and IT services and operations.
Under Ray's stewardship, T-Mobile achieved numerous milestones that solidified its position as an industry leader. Perhaps the most remarkable was T-Mobile's distinction as the first to introduce statewide 5G.
Ray's influence extended beyond T-Mobile's walls, as he served on the CTIA Board of Directors and the 5G Americas' Board of Governors. His contributions were not limited to industry boards; he also played pivotal roles on federal advisory committees, including the Network Reliability and Interoperability Council (NRIC) and the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC).
A graduate of City, University of London, Ray is a member of both the Institution of Electrical and Electronic Engineers and the Institution of Civil Engineers, showcasing his commitment to advancing the field of telecommunications.
One of Ray's most remarkable achievements was his leadership in designing T-Mobile's network strategy, spanning from 2G to 5G. His guidance and a world-class team executed this strategy over his 23-year tenure at the company, resulting in T-Mobile's largest, fastest, most dependable, and most awarded 5G network.
Mike Sievert, T-Mobile's CEO, expressed his admiration for Ray's contributions, emphasizing his dedication to establishing an exceptional IT team, which has been pivotal to T-Mobile's success. Sievert also announced a well-planned succession, appointing Ulf Ewaldsson as President of Technology. Ewaldsson, who joined T-Mobile from Ericsson, boasts deep network strategy leadership skills and was instrumental in launching T-Mobile's leading 5G network.
Ewaldsson's impressive track record includes overseeing the historic Sprint merger, which laid the foundation for T-Mobile's nationwide, independent 5G network, spanning all 50 states. His leadership has unlocked billions in network synergies, improved customer satisfaction, and reduced churn.
With Ray's legacy as a guiding light, T-Mobile is well-positioned for the next chapter of its journey. Under Ewaldsson's leadership and with a strong team in place, T-Mobile's commitment to innovation, network excellence, and customer satisfaction remains unwavering.
As we look to the future, Ray's name will undoubtedly be synonymous with T-Mobile's remarkable rise to network supremacy. His relentless pursuit of excellence has left an indelible mark on the industry, and his legacy will continue to shape the future of telecommunications for years to come.