James J. Gerace

Jim Gerace's Career Overview

Jim Gerace has had a distinguished career in the field of communications, boasting 37 years of extensive experience. He is a seasoned professional in areas such as financial communications, M&A communications, media relations, public relations, and government affairs. His career is marked by significant contributions to one of the biggest telecommunication companies in the world, Verizon.

Early Career

Jim started his career at NYNEX Mobile Communications in 1986 as a Manager of Employee Communications. Here, his focus was on internal communications and corporate messaging. His leadership skills and strategic thinking led to his promotion to Executive Director of Public Relations, where he specialized in strategic communications, media relations, and crisis communications from 1991 to 1995.

Bell Atlantic Mobile

In 1995, Jim moved to Bell Atlantic Mobile as the Vice President of Corporate Communications. He played a vital role in the merger of Bell Atlantic Mobile and AirTouch, and in launching the Verizon Wireless brand. During this period, he also announced the merger between Bell Atlantic Mobile and NYNEX Mobile, marking a significant milestone in his career.

Joining Verizon

Jim’s journey with Verizon began in April 2000 when he became the Vice President of Corporate Communications. This role saw him lead communications for critical developments such as the rollouts of Verizon's 3G and 4G LTE networks and the introduction of the DROID brand and the first iPhone. His efforts greatly influenced Verizon's position in the market as a technology leader.

State Government Affairs

In 2010, Jim took on the role of Vice President of State Government Affairs for the New York Region, managing public policy, regulatory matters, and philanthropic efforts in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. His strategic thinking and effective communication skills ensured strong relationships between Verizon and state government entities.

Chief Communications Officer

Jim’s most recent role was as the Chief Communications Officer at Verizon, a position he held from January 2013 to January 2024. In this role, he managed global external communications strategies, executive, and employee communications. One of his notable achievements was directing the successful launch of the world's first commercial 5G wireless network, a major accomplishment that significantly boosted Verizon's wireless home internet product sales.

Educational Background

Jim's educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University at Buffalo. His education laid a solid foundation for his successful career, giving him the knowledge and skills necessary for effective communication and strategic planning.

Professional Recognition and Expertise

Throughout his career, Jim has been recognized for his expertise in corporate communications, strategic communications, crisis communications, media relations, and public relations. He has been a trusted advisor to CEOs and junior executives alike, offering valuable counsel on various communication matters.

Culture Building and Leadership

In addition to his professional achievements, Jim has been a culture builder, playing a key role in workforce integration and building strong, cohesive teams. His leadership has had a lasting impact on the organizations he has worked with, especially Verizon, where he contributed to several key communication milestones.

Conclusion

Jim Gerace’s career path is a testament to his dedication, expertise, and significant contributions to the field of communications. His accomplishments in launching major network technologies and managing extensive communication strategies have set a high standard in the industry.