Jim Fowler : Lumen Technologies (NYSE: LUMN) today announced the appointment of Jim Fowler as Executive Vice President and Chief Technology and Product Officer. This appointment will be effective January 5, 2026. Fowler, who previously served as Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Nationwide Insurance, will now lead Lumen’s technology and product strategy.
Jim Fowler to Succeed Dave Ward
Fowler will succeed Dave Ward, who is now taking on the role of President and Chief Architect at Salesforce, the world’s largest AI-based customer relationship management (CRM) platform. Ward will remain with Lumen until January 23, 2026, to assist with the leadership transition.
Jim Fowler’s Contribution to Lumen’s Technology and Product Strategy
Jim Fowler will report to Lumen CEO Kate Johnson and will be responsible for the continued development of the company’s network, digital platforms, and product portfolio. With this appointment, Fowler will drive Lumen’s global technology and product strategy and lead the company in a new direction.
Lumen CEO Kate Johnson said,
“Dave’s visionary leadership has given us a strong foundation on which to build. Jim is the perfect fit to lead our technology and product teams. We look forward to working with him to further strengthen our progress and propel Lumen toward revenue growth.”
Fowler’s Career and Experience
Jim Fowler joined Lumen’s Board of Directors in 2023, helping to shape the company’s transformation strategy and technology roadmap. Prior to that, he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Nationwide Insurance. Fowler also spent two decades at General Electric (GE) in various significant technology leadership roles, including Global Chief Information Officer. Fowler began his professional career at AT&T in 1993 and later worked at Accenture.
Future Direction for Lumen
Jim Fowler stated, “Lumen has a unique opportunity to strengthen its position in the areas of AI and networking. I am excited to partner with this team to develop the next-generation roadmap for networks and products. Our goal will be to ensure continuous innovation and diligently execute Lumen’s roadmap for the benefit of our customers and shareholders.”
No Change in Strategic Development
Lumen clarified that this leadership change will not alter the company’s previously established technology roadmap or strategic development priorities. The company will present these priorities at its Investor Day event in New York on February 25, 2026.This change will help Lumen further strengthen its technology and product strategy and unlock new growth opportunities for the company in the coming years.
