Nokia has announced the promotion of David Heard to President of its Network Infrastructure business group, effective July 1, 2025.
David Heard, currently serving as Chief Strategic Growth Officer for Network Infrastructure, will also join Nokia’s Group Leadership Team and report to President and CEO Justin Hotard. He will be based in Dallas, Texas.
David Heard succeeds Federico Guillen, who will retire from Nokia at the end of 2025. Federico Guillen will step down from his current role and the Group Leadership Team on June 30, 2025, after leading Network Infrastructure through a period of significant transformation and profitable growth. Federico Guillen and David Heard will work closely together over the coming months to ensure a smooth leadership transition.
David Heard joined Nokia in February 2025 following its acquisition of Infinera, where he had served as CEO. Prior to becoming CEO, Heard was Infinera’s Chief Operating Officer, overseeing the company’s product innovation and operational strategy.
David Heard’s career spans leadership roles at several major U.S. technology firms, including JDSU, BigBand Networks, Somera Communications, Lucent, and AT&T. Heard brings with him deep expertise in the telecommunications industry, particularly in scaling businesses and developing AI-optimized solutions for hyperscale customers.
Nokia CEO Justin Hotard praised both leaders, stating, “Federico has built a strong, customer-focused Network Infrastructure business, positioning it for long-term growth. I thank him for his outstanding leadership. I’m excited to welcome David to the Group Leadership Team — his proven ability to drive innovation and growth makes him the ideal person to lead the next chapter of Network Infrastructure.”
In a related announcement, Nokia also appointed Victoria Hanrahan as Chief of Staff to the President and CEO, effective immediately. Based in Espoo, she will focus on strategic and operational initiatives, reporting directly to Justin Hotard.
TelecomLead.com News Desk
