Durham Black, Inc. (OTC Pink: AFFU), a leading holding company specializing in asset-light connectivity and applications, is making significant strides with the announcement of key leadership appointments and an expansion of its Board of Directors. These changes underscore the company’s commitment to enhancing expertise, governance, and sustainable growth in the competitive global communications market.
Effective immediately, Mary Stanhope has been appointed as the President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Durham Black. Stanhope, who will also serve on the company’s Board of Directors, brings a wealth of experience in operational oversight and planning. Her impressive track record includes leadership roles at industry giants such as SchlumbergerSema and Unitas Global, where she demonstrated exceptional capability in driving growth and aligning initiatives.
Patrick C. Shutt, CEO of Durham Black, expressed confidence in Stanhope’s ability to steer the company towards its ambitious goals. “Mary is an ideal leader to shape Durham Black’s operations and align our strategic direction into a successful operating system.”
In addition to the appointment of Stanhope, Durham Black has expanded its Board of Directors from three to six members. This expansion is a deliberate move to infuse the Board with diverse expertise and enhance corporate governance. The new Board members bring extensive experience across the connectivity market, particularly in operations, investment, and revenue generation.
Robert Pollan, an experienced executive with over 35 years of global investment and operational expertise, joins the Board as an independent director and will assume the role of Chairman. Patrick Shutt, recently appointed CEO and Board Director, will take on the role of Vice Chairman.
Pollan expressed his enthusiasm about joining Durham Black, stating, “I am excited to help steer the company toward fulfilling its vision.” His experience at Internet Capital Group and other ventures have proved the value of investing in knowledgeable operators to create highly innovative companies and value in the markets they serve.
The newly expanded Board of Directors will play a crucial role in guiding Durham Black’s initiatives. The company is focused on driving digital transformation in the global communications market through innovative AI-enabled, data-centric solutions. This approach is aligned with Durham Black’s mission to unlock new markets and expand its addressable market into the $1.7 trillion global communications sector.
Durham Black’s recent leadership and Board enhancements mark a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards strategic growth and innovation. With the combined expertise of its new President and COO, Mary Stanhope, and the expanded Board of Directors, Durham Black is well-positioned to lead the digital transformation in the global communications market.
