Speaker

Wael Faheem is the Chief Information Officer of Verizon’s Network Systems organization, responsible for implementing technology strategies for the systems behind Verizon’s global networks. The Network Systems team is focused on delivering technology solutions in support of Verizon’s network planning, access engineering, core engineering, and field operations organizations. Wael brings to this role a deep understanding of digitization, horizontalization, and integration, with experience in implementing enterprise-wide system transformation.

In his previous role, Wael led a global, cross functional team responsible for delivering solutions across wireless and wireline networks for B2B customer segments, including Global Enterprise, Business Markets, Public Sector and Wholesale organizations. Wael and his team drove the enterprise-wide transformation of the systems landscape, with a focus on platform horizontalization, process simplification, value proposition, and best in class customer and employee experience. This approach allows for Verizon Business systems to be future ready and extensible for all products and services, inclusive of 5G, Fixed Wireless Access, MEC & Private Networks, IoT and beyond. Under Wael’s leadership, Verizon has achieved a breakthrough in applied AI capabilities, integrating advanced machine learning models and generative algorithms to drive business value.

Wael has a proven track record of global systems transformation, with a focus on consolidation, automation, and digitization, further simplifying the sales and service ecosystem. In addition, the team’s operating model has transformed under Wael’s leadership. Through delivery and operational excellence, implementation of the collapsed agile methodology, and a focus on diverse and inclusive talent, Wael’s mindfulness on employee engagement has resulted in a winning culture.
Previously, Wael was the VP and CIO of Verizon Consumer Markets, he led the organization responsible for providing leading-edge technology and business solutions for Verizon’s growing consumer Fios markets. Wael’s team managed the development, implementation, usability and support of VCM and VBM call center agent facing systems, inclusive of the sales, service, and tech support desktop application, as well as Verizon’s interactive voice portal platforms. In addition, the team supported all digital systems for mobile and desktop customer based solutions.

Wael joined GTE as a systems engineer in 1998 and has been a proud member of the Verizon team ever since. He is an executive sponsor of Verizon’s PACT employee resource group whose mission is to empower parents and caregivers to succeed through education and communal support. Wael brings to his position over twenty five years of market, product, and industry experience. His system leadership focuses on continuous evolution through emerging
technologies at its core.

Wael holds a master’s degree in Computer Science from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign. In 2024, Wael completed his Doctorate of Science in Cybersecurity from Marymount University. As a recent empty nester, Wael currently resides in New Jersey with his family.