Candidate Statements

↘

Sean Bergin, President & Co-Founder, APTelecom, USA

OCEANIA-FOR-PROFIT

I have been actively engaged with PTC for more than a decade, including service as both Board Member and Chairman. During my tenure as Chair, I guided PTC through two of its most significant challenges in decades: the disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic and the transition to new executive leadership. Members could rely on me as a steady and safe pair of hands to protect continuity and focus on value during uncertain times. Beyond governance, I have shown a consistent commitment to the next generation of industry leaders through my leadership of the PTC Academy, where young professionals are equipped to contribute meaningfully to our community. Even without currently serving on the Board, I continue this work as a testament to my belief in PTC’s mission. If elected, I will bring continuity, proven leadership, and a member-first focus to everything PTC does.

Mark Dando, Chief Executive Officer, ProxyTwin Pty Ltd., Australia

OCEANIA-FOR-PROFIT

I’m committed to helping shape the future of PTC for all members. We share a vision for how Telecommunications can help make a better world in the 21st century. As Vice Chair of the PTC Advisory Council I have heard our members say they want PTC to innovate. We’ve improved the conference information, attracted a new generation of members with the Beyond programme, and led with advances in AI. Over the last few years, we have all played a part in the networks that allowed nations, large and small, to use technology for the benefit of their citizens. Now as AI brings new opportunities and demands to our industry, I am committed to a PTC that helps all nations to benefit from the resulting ideas, education, and training. I look forward to seeing you face-to-face at PTC’26 and I’m grateful for your vote.

Eric Fan, Chief Executive Officer, Bridge Data Centres, Singapore

SOUTHEAST & SOUTH ASIA FOR-PROFIT

I am motivated to serve on the PTC Board of Governors to contribute my experience and perspective in guiding the Council’s strategic development. With over a decade of leadership in digital infrastructure and prior global roles at Saint-Gobain, Dow Chemical, and Honeywell, I bring cross-border experience, strong technical foundation, and proven ability to scale sustainable, high-performance operations. As CEO of Bridge Data Centres, I have led the company’s rapid expansion across Asia, delivering future-ready hyperscale infrastructure by upholding industry leading efficiency, driving breakthrough innovations, and establishing resilient delivery models that set new benchmarks for the sector. My academic background — Ph.D. in Engineering Science from Oxford — complements hands-on leadership across diverse markets. Beyond company growth, I am committed to helping PTC thrive as innovator and decision-maker in the Pacific region, advancing sustainability, inclusivity, and education while ensuring the Council growth and lead in shaping the industry’s future.

Paul Abfalter, Chief Strategy & Revenue Officer, FLAG, Hong Kong SAR China

EAST ASIA FOR-PROFIT

One year as a Deputy Chair of Board of Governors. Three years as Chair of Board of Governor’s Membership Committee. My key focus areas are: – Ensuring that PTC’s virtual presence continues to improve; – Continuing the great success of PTC DC as our lead mid year event, and uplifting PTC Japan. – Continuing to evolve our member benefits, and to lift & broaden our record membership. Focus on millennials, AI, Finance, Data Centre, other technology companies and carriers. – Ensuring that PTC January continues to be the largest, most impactful and most fun event in the international connectivity calendar. – Expanding the community projects PTC leads and PTC’s not-for-profit purpose, particularly in the Pacific Islands; – Involving a broader cross-section of PTC members in our community initiatives; – Increase PTC’s focus on environmental initiatives, particularly in subsea cable and energy efficiency.

Ricky Chau, Chief Operating Officer, CBC Tech, Hong Kong SAR China

EAST ASIA FOR-PROFIT

I am honored to be considered for the PTC Board of Governors. With over 20 years of leadership in digital infrastructure and enterprise networking across Asia-Pacific, I have worked to build secure, resilient, and scalable networks that connect enterprises, communities and service providers. I have a deep understanding of the region’s diverse markets, regulatory environments and infrastructure priorities. If elected, I will contribute my regional insights and experience to PTC’s strategic development, programs, and membership outreach. I am committed to ensuring that Asia-Pacific’s perspectives inform global ICT discussions, promoting collaboration, knowledge sharing, and inclusive growth. I will help advance PTC’s mission of connecting people and organizations through ethical, innovative digital infrastructure, while fostering a future-ready and resilient digital ecosystem across Asia Pacific.

Yonit Goldberg, Chair, IDCA – Israel Data Center Association, Israel

GLOBAL NON-PROFIT

I’m Yonit Goldberg, Co-Founder 11Stream and Chair of the IDCA. For more than 2 decades, I’ve been working across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia, helping governments, investors, and technology leaders shape the future of digital and telecom infrastructure. What I’d bring to PTC Leadership is a truly connected regional perspective — linking emerging markets with established ecosystems, and ensuring that voices from our part of the world are part of the global conversation. I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with many of the leading data center and telecom associations, and I’m passionate about building bridges, fostering collaboration, and turning ideas into practical impact. I was honored to be named twice among Israel’s 50 most influential women in communications infrastructure, and I’m excited to contribute that same energy, network, and vision to PTC’s mission.

Masaaki Sakamaki, Vice Chairman, PTCJ, Japan

GLOBAL NON-PROFIT

As a member of BG currently and AC formally as well as Program Committee for many years, I have witnessed the amazing fruitful development of the PTC activities in changing technological environment and the steady organizational improvement over the last several years, driven by the hard work of the secretariat, enthusiasm of the members and the participants and the volunteers in the BG and AC. I wish to contribute to continue this great momentum, utilizing my extensive experience with complex issues related to non-profit organizations which I was responsible for in the public sector. Besides PTC I continue to volunteer on the board for two non-profit organizations, a public safety emergency satellite communications organization and as the chairman of the board at the AFS Intercultural Program Japan. I would appreciate it if I could continue joining you in the effort to enhance the PTC.

Michael King, Director, Infrastructure Strategy, Cloudflare, USA

NORTH AMERICA FOR-PROFIT

I am a senior leader representing the dynamic North American for-profit sector, and I am deeply committed to the Pacific Telecommunications Council’s mission of advancing global digital infrastructure and collaboration. I will contribute a forward-thinking perspective on the most critical challenges facing our industry today. My focus will be to champion an open and competitive internet ecosystem. I will advocate for governance that ensures cloud-neutrality to prevent infrastructure lock-in and foster a truly level playing field across all regions, particularly in the Pacific Rim. Furthermore, I will drive strategic discussions on the future of equitable AI development, ensuring that the next generation of global connectivity is secure, sustainable, and respectful of content ownership. I aim to ensure PTC Leadership reflects the urgency of these issues, securing a vibrant and prosperous digital future for all members.

Barb Mitchell, Chief Operating Officer, Jaymie Scotto & Associates, USA

NORTH AMERICA FOR-PROFIT

My career is focused at the intersection of digital infrastructure, telecommunications, and strategy, driven by a belief that technology should empower communities and connect the world responsibly. I am inspired by the next generation, including my own children, who will inherit and shape the world we are building today. As a senior leader, I bring strategic insight, extensive experience in marketing and operations, and a proven track record of building partnerships and mentoring emerging talent. As a member of PTC’s Board of Directors, I would work to advance collaboration, foster innovation, and ensure the industry grows responsibly and sustainably, creating a connected and accessible future across the Pacific and beyond.

Shrihari Pandit, Chief Executive Officer, Stealth Communications, USA

NORTH AMERICA FOR-PROFIT

I’ve been CEO of Stealth Communications since 1995, I have spent a great deal in advancing telecommunications infrastructure, from fiber optic networks in dense urban environments to subsea cable systems; and emerging technologies shaping future connectivity. My work is primarily rooted in building resilient, secure infrastructure and fostering strategic collaborations that bridge commercial innovation with national and global interests. About PTC Board of Governors: I can contribute to deep operational insight, security concerns, industry foresight, and a strong commitment to strengthening connectivity within the Pacific and beyond.

William Winsininski, Chief Executive Officer, CWC Consulting, Inc, USA

NORTH AMERICA FOR-PROFIT

I absolutely love the data center industry. Every day brings something new — a different challenge, a new collaboration, a chance to learn. Over the years, the people I’ve worked alongside — from the largest hyperscalers and colocation operators to the structured cabling crews in the trenches — have become not just colleagues, but trusted friends. It’s the people in this industry who keep me engaged, grounded, and inspired to keep pushing for what’s next — to make the industry better, smarter, and stronger together.

Diego Teot, Head of OTT Media & Telco, Retelit, Italy

EUROPE FOR-PROFIT

I am honored to be considered for a role on the PTC Leadership. With over 25 years of experience in international telecommunications, I have dedicated my career to building resilient and efficient networks that support global communications. In this role, I would contribute a strong focus on Europe. My goal as a member of PTC Leadership would be to advocate for coordinated strategies that enhance operational efficiency, foster collaboration across regions, and ensure that Europe’s priorities and opportunities are clearly represented in the Board’s decision-making. I am committed to bringing both a strategic vision and practical experience to support the PTC in delivering resilient, secure, and future-ready networks. Finally, I can’t guarantee I’ll always have the perfect answer, but I can promise I’ll make sure there’s always enough coffee in the room and to have at least three bad jokes to lighten the meeting!

Alessandro Lombardi, Chairman, Elea Data Centers, Brazil

CENTRAL AND SOUTH AMERICA FOR-PROFIT

I believe in the transformative power of digital infrastructure to shape economies and societies. As someone who transitioned from Europe to Brazil, I’ve seen firsthand how emerging markets embrace innovation with enthusiasm. At Elea, we’ve built a platform that reflects this spirit—flexible, sustainable, and ready for the future. I want to bring this perspective to PTC, representing Latin America’s voice in global conversations. My journey has taught me that instinct, passion, and purpose drive real change. I’m committed to fostering collaboration, accelerating responsible growth, and ensuring our region is not just included but leading in the digital transformation.

Naaz Bax, [Individual Member], United Kingdom

INDIVIDUAL MEMBER

I am honored to stand as a candidate for the PTC Board of Governors. As Founder & CEO of Team Bax Inc., I bring over two decades of experience in global telecommunications, subsea infrastructure, and digital transformation. My work has always been about building bridges—connecting operators, hyperscalers, vendors, and communities to create real impact. As Chair of the PTC Advisory Council, I’ve seen how powerful member voices can be when they are heard and acted upon. PTC’s strength is its people, and I believe diverse perspectives are the key to solving our shared challenges. If elected, I will focus on three priorities: amplifying member voices, driving sustainability and responsible innovation, and keeping PTC the leading platform for global connectivity and partnership. My goal is simple: to help PTC remain a community where ideas spark action, collaboration thrives, and individuals feel empowered to shape our industry’s future.

Heather Hudson, [Individual Member], USA

INDIVIDUAL MEMBER

I am a dual Canadian/US citizen, a long time member of PTC, and an academic with experience also in public policy and international development. My research focuses on applications of information and communication technologies for socio-economic development, regulatory issues, and policies and strategies to extend affordable access to communications, particularly in rural and developing regions. I have planned and evaluated communication projects in more than 50 developing countries and emerging economies, including the Pacific islands, the Caribbean, Asia, Africa and the Arctic, and have also consulted for many international and development organizations. At PTC, I have been a frequent speaker and session chair, and previously a member of the Board of Governors and the Advisory Council. In 2021, I was awarded the Richard Barber Prize for distinguished service to PTC. I would like to continue to contribute to the goals and activities of PTC as a Board member.

Tony Rossabi, [Individual Member], USA

INDIVIDUAL MEMBER

For more than 25 years, I have actively championed PTC through my professional relationships; encouraging participation, sponsorship, membership, collaboration, and knowledge sharing within our community. I have had the privilege of serving PTC as President and Chairman of the Board of Governors, and I continue to contribute as a Planning Committee member, mentor, and instructor with PTC Academy. I am deeply committed to PTC’s mission and to fostering an inclusive, collaborative community that drives innovation and connectivity worldwide. It would be an honor to continue serving and contributing my experience, energy, and passion to further PTC’s impact on our members and the broader ICT industry. It would be a privilege to return to the board, continuing to serve this incredible community. Looking ahead, I am excited about the opportunities to strengthen PTC’s role as a catalyst for innovation, partnership, and global connectivity. Thank you for your consideration.