Ed Parkinson named Executive Director of FirstNet Authority

Edward Parkinson has been named Executive Director of the US First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) board.

“Ed’s leadership has been instrumental to the success of FirstNet, and he brings a passion and vision for the job that will ensure the organisation continues to deliver for our nation’s first responders,” said Edward Horowitz, FirstNet Authority Board Chair.

“Speaking on behalf of the FirstNet Authority Board, I congratulate him on the selection and thank Jeff Bratcher for serving in key leadership duties during the search.”

Parkinson had been Acting Executive Director for the FirstNet Authority since October 2018.

During his tenure as Acting Executive Director, the organisation released the FirstNet Authority Roadmap and the first set of investment opportunities for expanding and enhancing the network.

“Ed has a deep understanding of FirstNet and public safety, as well as a commitment to driving innovation for our nation’s first responders,” said FirstNet Authority Board Vice Chair Sheriff Richard Stanek. “I look forward to continue working with Ed to advance public safety’s network.”

Parkinson was one of the first employees to join the FirstNet Authority in 2013, and since then he has served in a variety of leadership positions within the organisation, including Executive Director of External Affairs.

“I am truly honoured to be selected as the Executive Director of the FirstNet Authority,” said Parkinson. “I am proud of the work that we do every day to help public safety and am excited about the opportunity to continue leading the FirstNet Authority as we evolve the network to meet their communications needs.”

Parkinson spoke at Comms Connect Sydney in 2019.

Image courtesy FirstNet.