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The Switch Executive team is comprised of passionate, dedicated industry experts, bringing years of experience to a leading technology infrastructure company. Since its founding, Switch has embraced a culture of diversity and equality, and is a technology company where women represent half of our senior leadership team.
Switch’s founder and CEO, Rob Roy, cultivates a unique client-oriented culture at every level of the company. The team’s motivation and drive to produce the absolute best results for our clients manifests in unparalleled client value and the industry’s best customer service.
Rob Roy is CEO and Founder of Switch, developer of the world-renowned Switch data centers. Rob Roy is the recognized world leader in data center ecosystem design, development, and mission critical operations.
In the year 2000, with a background in business leadership, engineering, commercial development and technology, Rob Roy converged his areas of expertise to create Switch in Las Vegas, Nevada. His vision was to offer advanced technology ecosystems and the combined services and solutions inherent to those environments. Early clients ranged from the world’s leading enterprise and fortune 100 corporations.
Since founding Switch, inventrepreneur Rob Roy has transformed the way data center ecosystems are engineered and utilized. As the chief inventor and designer of Switch data center facilities and their technology solutions platforms, Rob Roy is widely considered the data center industry's most successful technology entrepreneur. With more than 750 issued and pending patent claims for data center systems, designs, and related industry technologies, Rob Roy's inventions and thought leadership have changed the industry landscape and created a new standard of excellence for mission critical facilities.
A key turning point for the Switch technology ecosystems occurred in 2002. Rob Roy acquired the former Enron facility in Las Vegas and tapped into a unique technology treasure – an advanced fiber optic nexus with a level of connectivity unlike anywhere else in the country. The network capacity, redundancy and reliability of the facility enabled Switch to create one of the largest technology optimization sites in the world. Through this acquisition, and with dedication and a focus on elite design and differentiation, Rob Roy created a technology environment that is unrivaled and will most likely never be replicated. It was a technology enablement opportunity of historic proportions.
In 2006, Rob Roy's vision expanded with the construction of the revolutionary SUPERNAP product. These data center ecosystems go beyond securely housing the computer, storage, and enterprise connectivity for leading global companies. These Switch data center ecosystems provide infrastructure for more than 800 corporations, including leading cloud companies, and offer below wholesale telecom prices through the $6.7+ trillion in collective buying power of Switch CONNECT®. The company continues to evolve, innovate and grow at its Switch PRIME locations for coverage across North America. Internationally, the exclusive licensee of Switch technologies, SUPERNAP International, has locations in Southern Europe and Asia Pacific.
Rob Roy is committed to paying forward the success of Switch and is passionate about enabling more diverse economies in the communities served. In 2012, he created Rob Roy’s Innevation Center, a philanthropic effort to support economic diversification and foster collaboration between Nevada change agents, entrepreneurs, business leaders and the community.
Rob Roy’s Innevation Center is a 65,000-square-foot entrepreneurial and business hub providing the resources, education and connections necessary to grow the Nevada economic landscape. Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, on the Core Campus of Switch, the Innevation offers business development resources including meeting space, economic development tools, executive suites and corporate headquarter options.
A thought leader in his industry and business, Rob Roy is actively involved with several industry and community initiatives, including being on the board of the Governor's Office of Economic Development (GOED). He also founded powerful economic stimulators such as The Nevada Board, NV Angels and CANVAS (California Nevada Angel Syndicate).
Through it all, Rob Roy has remained incredibly hands-on, creative and inspirational to his team and the industry. He has not only designed the largest and most unique data center ecosystems in the world, supported by a best-in-class team, but his stamp of innovation, detail and excellence can be witnessed down to the interior architecture and custom furnishings throughout Switch and Rob Roy’s Innevation Center. He has built a culture of people who possess the same dedication to innovation, detail and true technology leadership.
Mr. Morton joined Switch in 2008 where he currently serves as the President and Chief Legal Officer. As Switch has grown as an enterprise, Mr. Morton served in several leadership roles within the organization, including several years as Chief Financial Officer and General Counsel through Switch’s IPO in 2017.
Prior to joining Switch, Mr. Morton had a successful career as an intellectual property and M&A attorney from 1997-2008. First with Gray Cary (now DLA Piper) and then Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP. Mr. Morton received a B.A. in Finance from the University of San Diego and a Juris Doctorate from the University of the Pacific. He also holds a Certificate in International Law from the University of Austria, Salzburg. Mr. Morton has served on the Board of the McClellan Incubator and the Sacramento Area Regional Technology Alliance (SARTA). He also co-founded two software companies (Finish Line and ImageKeeper) the first of which has been sold and the other continues in operation.
Outside of Switch, Mr. Morton serves on the Board of Summit Spirits and Wine and the Board of Trustees for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He also actively participates in children’s charities and was one of three founders of Hope Productions which provides a yearlong education program to assist children’s charities with business fundamentals and achieving success milestones. Mr. Morton has 3 children with Christina, his wife of over 25 years. When not seeking entrepreneurial challenges, Mr. Morton enjoys racing cars, with his son and attempting to complete triathlons.
Missy Young is the Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Switch. She drives the company’s solutions architecture to create a fundamental and sustainable change in the way clients ultimately design and implement intelligent data strategies. As a technologist, Missy has played a pivotal role in the company’s evolution from the most innovative data center company in the world to the world’s only exascale retail colocation ecosystem that it is today.
Since joining the company in 2005, Missy has also held roles with leadership responsibilities for all sales operations and solutions engineering with respect to potential clients and win-win contract negotiations. Her expertise in technology trends, forecasting client needs and connecting those trends with results has been a great asset to Switch and its success. She worked to help take Switch public in 2017 and continues to interact with investors and analysts. As a public speaker Missy continues to take the unique message of Switch to the world, and frequently speaks on the topics of leadership and empowering women.
Prior to becoming a partner at Switch, Missy was the Director of Sales Engineering and VoIP services for Mpower Communications. Her portfolio of experience also includes senior sales engineering positions at ICG Communications, InteleNet Data Centers, and FirstWorld Communications. She entered the industry back in the dot-com days of the mid-90s, as a network engineer through her Cisco, Microsoft, and Novell certifications.
Missy serves on the FIRST®️ Nevada Robotics Board, the Foundation Board of Opportunity Village, Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada Board, the Desert Research Institute Foundation Board, and the Board of Directors for the Nevada School of the Arts. Additionally, Missy is a strong advocate for the certification path of education for young students who desire to enter the technology field, and for keeping the A in STEAM.
Lesley McVay is the COO (Chief Operations Officer) for Switch. She has led the company’s executive and operations teams in developing sound, mission-critical protocols around data center management, client onboarding and engagement, as well as the clients’ overall Switch experience. Lesley’s responsibility reach includes the installation of colocation, power and connectivity on the data center services side. She focuses on first and last touch of every client installation and has created company-wide systems to manage everything in between.
Lesley's extensive knowledge base is repeatedly showcased in each client interaction. Her range of communication skills that allow her to comfortably dive into the most intricate, technical details, then shift all the way to the most base line education style for various client roles is extremely impressive. Lesley works with clients ranging from Fortune 100 powerhouses and government agencies to mid-sized enterprises and startups to produce successful and timely client experiences. Her holistic efforts keep each client's mission critical business on target and on schedule.
Prior to joining Switch in 2005, Lesley was the Director of Operations for a successful Las Vegas-based software company where she managed all aspects of the business including product procurement, marketing, selling and distribution.
Gabe Nacht is the Chief Financial Officer for Switch. He is responsible for accounting, strategic finance, treasury, taxation and risk management. Gabe’s efforts are focused on funding Rob Roy’s growth and sustainability vision for Switch, ensuring that the company has the infrastructure, controls and operational analysis needed to manage exceptional growth. He is also dedicated to providing world-class service and support to all members of the Switch data center ecosystem, including clients, vendors, and team members.
Gabe is a strategic and operational executive with over 25 years of domestic and international corporate finance experience. He has been the CFO for a number of technology and media companies where he has directed IPO efforts, worked extensively with private-equity firms, guided organizations to successful liquidity events, established international operations and directed mergers & acquisitions. Gabe has also been extremely active in strategic planning, operational management, process improvement and investor relations.
Terri Borden is the CCO (Chief Construction Officer) at Switch. She has been instrumental over the last 12 years in creating the ultimate development matrix for Rob Roy’s modular optimized designs (MODs) and his exascale data center campus locations called Switch Primes. Her ability to forecast the pace and future construction needs is magical. More impressive, though, is her ability to say “of course” to the ever-expanding market demand needs that arise almost quarterly due to Switch’s exponential successes.
Terri is at the nexus of collaboration for the core data center teams to integrate all of their mission critical stages into her Switch construction model. She also oversees the Energy Management Team, which monitors and manages the overall health of Switch facilities and their critical power, cooling and monitoring systems.
Alongside CEO and Founder of Switch, Rob Roy, Terri continually works to develop and implement data center design improvements and advances in equipment, systems and processes to create the most advanced data center ecosystem in the world.
Prior to joining Switch, Terri was the Director of Operations for Corrigan Companies, the private, celebrity-owned restaurant group. She managed six stand-alone restaurants and supervised approximately 300 employees. Prior to Corrigan Companies, Terri was the Executive Assistant to the President of the Actuarial Department at Humana Insurance.
Terri is an active supporter of Habitat for Humanity Las Vegas and The Goodie Two Shoes Foundation.
Kristi Overgaard is the Chief Awesomeness Officer at Switch. She drives all aspects of the company’s brand, culture and corporate strategy.
Ms. Overgaard brings a rich background in creative direction, culture, mindfulness, environment design and community development to all of Switch’s brands. Along with company Founder and CEO Rob Roy, Overgaard is also passionately responsible for the company’s leadership commitment to Collaborative Philanthropy with a focus on STEAM education and sustainability.
Prior to joining Switch, Overgaard was Founder and President of leading downtown Las Vegas design firm one11. The entrepreneurial company focused on identity design, culture development, product design, branded interior design and urban redevelopment. Prior to one11’s creation, Overgaard held the roles of Vice President of Marketing and Senior Staff Member for The Howard Hughes Corporation, developers of the highly successful master-planned community of Summerlin in Las Vegas, Nevada.
As a resident of Las Vegas and Reno, Overgaard strives to make a tangible difference in the communities where she resides and beyond. She is a Trustee for the Nevada Museum of Art and serves both on the Executive Committee and the Las Vegas Expansion Committee. She participates on the board for Green Our Planet, the nation’s largest school garden program and is a Foundation Board Member and Vice Chair for Nevada State College. Additionally, Overgaard is a Champion Member for Dazzle Africa, a safari non-profit focused on wildlife conservation, community development and education in Zambia.
Chris Donnelly is the CXO (Chief Connectivity Officer) at Switch. Since joining Switch in 2008, Chris has focused his efforts on the development of the digital services and telecom wholesale buying consortium known as Switch CONNECT®. This unique and powerful entity aggregates the collective buying power of over 800 clients to create the single largest purchasing cooperative in the marketplace. The combined market capitalization of Switch CONNECT’s users has over $6.7+ trillion of purchasing power.
Chris works closely with the company’s global carrier partners to ensure the Switch data centers are among the most cost-effective and network-enabled facilities in the world. The company’s unique fiber optic gateway is one of the most robust network access points (NAP) in North America.
Prior to joining Switch, Chris has over 25 years of experience in the telecom industry and held various executive positions in the combined companies of Verizon (MFS, UUNET, WorldCom, MCI) as well as Qwest Communications. Chris also served as the President of Splice Communications, Inc. from 2003 until 2007.
Chris serves on the American Red Cross Board of Directors, Southern Nevada Chapter.
Cindy Zimpfer is the SVP of Colocation Sales at Switch. She is responsible for developing, growing and maintaining new and existing sales channels with agents, partners and vendors of Switch data centers. Cindy joined Switch in 2012 to support the dramatic growth in the company’s sales division.
Cindy has demonstrated a passion and commitment to developing effective partner relationships and is an integral part of assisting her partners and their clients with the migration into the Switch data center ecosystem. From sophisticated startups to Fortune 100 powerhouses, she works with clients to fulfill their goals through effective planning, strategy and implementation. Cindy takes the opportunity to learn their core business and what drives them.
She enjoys the diversity of working with various types of businesses and industries, and managing the ongoing relationships. Cindy's role is dual-state based as she manages partners and clients in Southern California and provides tours of the Switch headquarters in Las Vegas.
Prior to joining Switch, Cindy served in executive sales management positions for Worldwide Transport/Total Military Management, Bank of America, AT&T and Epoch Internet. She also consulted for firms in need of her expertise in strategic sales, account management, proposal development, sales presentations, contract negotiations and business development.
Lisa Hurless is the Senior Vice President of Brand for Switch, overseeing the Brand department, which supports the development and growth of sales for Switch and Switch companies. Since joining Switch in 2014, Lisa has worked closely with Kristi Overgaard, Chief Brand Officer, and has been integral in providing leadership, project management, and driving cultural excellence for this growing team of talented designers and artists.
Lisa also directs and manages all Switch branded interior design projects. Switch’s interiors are all custom designed with the personal direction of Rob Roy to ensure that all spaces are created with both form and function for both internal team members and Switch clients.
Lisa has spent her life as a creative professional manager, previously managing one11, a Las Vegas branding agency and Studio J, a commercial photography studio. She has produced large production shoots and campaign videos, identity development, creative culture processes, product design, branded interior design, and urban redevelopment. She thrives on collaborating with company-wide teams and is a proud member of the Switch team.
Brian Boles is the Executive Vice President of Network Operations at Switch. He has more than 20 years of operational experience and technical expertise at the local, regional and national levels and currently manages all aspects of the company’s overall architecture and end-to-end operations infrastructure. Brian assists in the development of future solutions for in-house and client technology evolution. His focus is on next-generation ideas and how the Switch team can help improve efficiencies and effectiveness on behalf of clients in the Switch data center ecosystem. He runs point on helping companies move to the next level.
Prior to joining Switch in 2001, Brian was the Director of Computer Operations and Networking for DemandTec, Inc. Brian drove the overall architecture and operations infrastructure, achieving substantial growth, while managing associated budgetary and staffing responsibilities. His experience also includes a leadership role with Mpower where he was instrumental in deploying the first national voice over DSL (VoDSL) product in the market. Brian collaborated on the development of the methods and procedure processes for network management change control at this firm, demonstrably driving down operational costs while increasing organizational efficiency, a significant achievement in any business.
Brian also worked at Mirage Resorts in Las Vegas as a senior network technician. While at Mirage Resorts, he was commissioned to manage the installation, testing, and configuration of all networking equipment required to support the opening and ongoing operations of every aspect of The Bellagio, Mirage's flagship resort and hotel.
Brian was honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps with a rank of sergeant after four years of award-winning service to his country. He held the ongoing responsibilities for network/communications cabling and associated infrastructure for Communications Company, Headquarters Battalion, 1st Marine Division, U.S.M.C.
Eddie Schutter is the Chief Technology Officer for Switch. Eddie is responsible for technical and operational leadership, optimization of production and services, and strategic development of innovation programs and initiatives that drive top-and-bottom line business value across all business units.
Transforming the company’s monetary and intellectual capital into technology to advance strategic and tactical plans, his focus includes leading efforts to identify new technologies that advance the strategic vision and mission of Switch. Eddie will also lead Switch’s efforts to promote, integrate and apply new technologies through research and development, proof of concept, piloting, field trials, scale out and realization.
Eddie has over 25 years of experience and leadership in the data center and information technology industry for organizations including eBay, AT&T, DCF Technologies, The Green Grid, Datacenter Pulse, and other various advisory boards. He is a Director on the iMasons BOD, executive advisor on the Technical Curriculum Advisory Board of CNet Training, and Executive Advisor on the SMU Lyle School of Engineering DSE Advisory Board.
Additionally, he has been instrumental in the development of operational optimization, technology innovations, automation, full stack solution development and deployment, networks, infrastructure security, cloud engineering, new product development, industry standards and advancing formal education in data center design and engineering.
Eddie is a Navy veteran and he studied Aerospace Engineering at Texas A&M University. He resides in Dallas with his wife of 28 years and their eleven children. In his free time, Eddie enjoys outdoor activities, soccer, hunting, fishing, and farming.
Terri Cooper is the Senior Vice President of Business Development at Switch. Terri relocated to Reno, Nevada in 2016 to lead Sales for Switch's Citadel Campus. Terri leverages her background in application development, infrastructure and data center operations at multi-national corporations to help her clients develop their data center strategy and leverage the capabilities of the Switch ecosystem. Her extensive experience in running datacenter migrations of all sizes enables her to assist her clients in the planning the move of their mission critical systems to Switch.
Terri started her career at Accenture working with clients in the telecom industry. She has worked at Level 3 Communications, Infocrossing (formerly iStructure), andCSG International. Immediately prior to joining Switch she was the EVP of Operations for Trace3.
Dr. Quinn Pauly is Chief Medical Officer at Switch and the head of the Life Muse Department. Dr. Pauly’s hometown is Reno, Nevada, where he attended Wooster High School and the University of Nevada School of Medicine. He received his undergraduate degree from Pomona College in California. Dr. Pauly’s mission is to help improve the health and well-being of all Switch team members and his patients. His professional goal is to advocate for the intelligent use of technology and data to make the US and Global health care systems maximally functional for all. Dr. Pauly enjoys watching his children mature into well-rounded adults. In his free time, he enjoys hiking and fly fishing. He is a board-certified Family Physician and a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Practice. Dr. Pauly is the President of the Nevada Physician Wellness Coalition and immediate past-Treasurer of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine.
As Vice President of Human Resources for Switch, Jessica is responsible for developing and implementing overall HR strategy and programs by providing our organization with structure and the ability to meet business needs through managing our most valuable resources: our incredible team of employees. Jessica provides leadership and focus to advance the company’s vision to drive organizational effectiveness and support Founder & CEO Rob Roy on all major initiatives. Jessica and her amazing team of professionals are strategic business partners intrinsically involved in the success of our organization.
A forward-thinking department that is devoted to providing people-friendly customer service designed to increase collaboration, communication and effectiveness within our company, HR supports productive and profitable business operations by understanding business needs and objectives. The entire HR team is well-versed in all functions within the Human Resources Field, including Recruiting & On-boarding, Compliance/Law, Compensation/Benefits and Payroll, HRIS (Human Resources Information System), Organizational Structure, Employee Relations, Policy/Procedures, Retention, Coaching & Development and Team Building.
Jessica has over 20 years in the field of Human Resources & Organizational Development and holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and graduate studies in Marriage and Family Counseling. Prior to becoming a partner at Switch, Jessica was the Director of Human Resources with the Las Vegas Visitors and Convention Authority (LVCVA). Her portfolio of experience also includes leadership and partnership HR roles within Gaming Technology, Construction, Consulting and the Hotel/Casino industry. She also aided in the development and delivery of leadership development programs in the US, Australia and Macau. Jessica is a member of SHRM and works with a variety of local community outreach/philanthropic programs.
Shanna Williams is the Senior Vice President of Procurement for Switch. With more than 25 years of purchasing and construction management experience, she is responsible for all purchasing operations for Switch in all locations and oversees all domestic procurement and purchasing. Shanna manages project tax abatements and is responsible for vendor contract management, certifying that all subcontractors are properly qualified to work on company job sites.
Shanna employs strong interpersonal skills to navigate successful negotiations with vendors in order to secure fair pricing and payment terms. She works collaboratively and strategically with all Switch departments to ensure that all supply chain goals and objectives are met, on time and within budget.
Prior to joining Switch in 2011, Shanna spent 21 years at a large Las Vegas plumbing firm where she oversaw all aspects of company operations, including purchasing, reviewing bid proposals, contract negotiation, field coordination, invoice review and payment. Additionally, she served as Commercial Department Manager for a large mechanical firm where she oversaw operations for the commercial mechanical and plumbing division and managed a staff of 20 individuals, which included project managers, estimators and BIM modelers.
Shanna is active in the Las Vegas community and regularly volunteers to feed the homeless, provide face painting during various community events and serves as an adult leader in her church's youth group.
Bill Kleyman brings more than 15 years of experience to his role as Executive Vice President of Digital Solutions at Switch. Using the latest innovations, such as AI, machine learning, data center design, DevOps, cloud and advanced technologies, Mr. Kleyman delivers solutions to customers that help them achieve their business goals and remain competitive in their market. An active member in the technology industry, he was ranked #16 globally in the Onalytica study that reviewed the top 100 most influential individuals in the cloud landscape; and #4 in another Onalytica study that reviewed the industry’s top Data Security Experts.
Prior to joining Switch, Mr. Kleyman was the CTO at MTM Technologies where he worked with new designs around virtualization, data center architecture, and cloud design. He was also a leader in the cloud and DevOps practice at EPAM Systems where he leveraged his multi-lingual skills to support next-generation digital engineering solutions on a global scale. Today, Mr. Kleyman is an Advisory Board Member at MTM Technologies. He also helps develop the Digital Marketing Program at the University of South Florida Muma College of Business as one of their leading Advisory Board Members. Finally, Mr. Kleyman is also an Infrastructure Masons (iMasons) Advisory Council Board Member, helping push the digital ecosystem and data center industry forward. As a part of iMasons, Mr. Kleyman holds the chair position for the IM Millennials/GenZ Member Resource Group; focusing on inspiring and bringing young people into the technology industry. Recently, Mr. Kleyman was selected as one of Oracle’s Industry Influencers, helping push forward advanced solutions around cloud, autonomous systems, and emerging data-driven solutions.
Mr. Kleyman enjoys writing, blogging and educating colleagues about everything related to technology. His work can be seen within thousands of articles, blogs, chapters in various books, white papers, journals, and more. His published and referenced work can be found on WindowsITPro, Data Center Frontier, Data Center Knowledge, InformationWeek, NetworkComputing, AFCOM, TechTarget, DarkReading, Forbes, CBS Interactive, Slashdot and others. Mr. Kleyman is a regular featured keynote presenter and speaker at major industry events including Interop, AFCOM Data Center World, DCD, ITPro, Citrix Synergy/Summit, VMware VMworld, Cisco Live, Google Partner Days, and many others.
As an avid adventurer, Mr. Kleyman loves taking road trips, train trips across the country, and participating in all sorts of outdoor activities and sports. Most of all, he loves spending time with his wife, daughter, and two pups.
Heather Ellerbe is the Vice President of Marketing at Switch. Heather’s responsibilities include supporting revenue growth through B2B demand generation and the development of integrated marketing campaigns including: search engine marketing, search engine optimization, programmatic digital advertising, email campaigns, organic and paid social media, content marketing, traditional advertising, public relations and corporate events.
Heather previously served as the Director of Brand Communication and Integrated Marketing Manager for Switch. Prior to joining Switch, Heather worked as a Marketing Analyst and Brand Manager at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas leading the consumer research department and analytics to inform marketing, media and brand strategy during the development and launch of this $4B independent luxury hospitality brand.
Additionally, Heather held various positions in Brand Marketing and Public Relations for the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers during their brand turnaround and with a national advertising agency on large accounts such as the National Basketball Association, Nike, Tefron, American Red Cross and more.
Heather graduated from New York University with a Bachelor’s degree in English. She also completed a degree in Advertising and Marketing Communications from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, studied at the University of London and attended the University of Washington during her academic career.
Jeffery Bryce is Switch’s Senior Vice President of Solutions Architecture. Jeffery is responsible for leading the connectivity team’s technical, operational and product development strategy to support global telecommunications solutions for existing and prospective clients.
Jeffery’s expertise in solutions architecture enables him to lead the connectivity team in the technical aspects of pre-sale activities including; custom engineering designs, analysis of customer network requirements, IP and WAN security, capital requirements, product delivery and identifying strategic opportunities.
Prior to joining Switch, Jeffery was the Director of Sales Engineering at Level 3 Communications where he led the development of multi-billion-dollar lines of business in North America, EMEA, and APAC as well as Senior Manager of International Engineering and Architecture for Winstar International, Inc. in Europe. Jeffery brings his in-depth knowledge of global carrier service offerings, engineering of fiber network construction, management of carrier relationships and the expansion of carrier options into Switch data centers.
Jeffery enjoys golf and pursues trout at the end of his fly line. He is a patron of the Seattle Symphony and is often found at a workbench building ham radios during the winter months.
Hugo Andraus is the Senior Vice President of Network Operations at Switch. He is responsible for overseeing operations in the Networking Operations Center, Network Engineering, Network Infrastructure and IT at all Switch PRIME Campus locations. Hugo leads the design, deployment, quality assurance, monitoring 24x7x365, maintenance, and administration of network physical architecture and IT systems for both clients and employees.
Hugo brings over 18 years of leadership and technical experience in the telecom and networking fields. Prior to joining Switch, Hugo was the Lead Network Field Engineer and Inside Plant Project Manager for Sierra Pacific Communications and was responsible for overseeing the deployment of metro dark and lit fiber networks for multiple large-scale customers. His experience also includes a leadership role at Lucent Technologies as a network integrator where he was an instrumental part in the deployment of a long haul DWDM network across Nevada. Hugo enjoys spending time with family and his kids, reading, playing sports and enjoying live music.
Heather Kinder is the VP of Connectivity for the Switch CONNECT team. Heather works closely with Switch customers to help manage their telecom spend. She works with the world’s largest global carrier partners to ensure that Switch customers are always aware of the latest telecom technologies available. Switch CONNECT aggregates the combined buying power of its client base into one carrier-neutral purchasing cooperative for an unmatched return on infrastructure investment for Switch customers.
Heather’s career with Switch started in 2017 as a Project Manager, provisioning and delivering connectivity throughout the world for Switch customers. Heather has an extensive 20-year background in financial planning with a degree in finance from Houston Baptist University. In 2013, Heather was approached by a technology company to run the Las Vegas market. Heather jumped at the opportunity to challenge herself in a new industry. Her background gives her a unique insight when auditing Switch customers to help reduce overall network cost while improving network performance.
Heather is the former Chair of The Salvation Army of Southern Nevada, on the Business Council of the Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce and is involved with the Henderson Chamber of Commerce. Heather enjoys boating, camping, hiking, and exploring with her two children.
Raleigh Midura is SVP of Client Experience & Services on the Client Experience & Services team at Switch. She is responsible for cultivating client relationships and personally delivering a world-class Switch experience.
Prior to joining Switch, Raleigh relocated from New York City. She worked at Ricoh USA Inc. as a Major Account Executive selling business hardware and software to the largest law firms in the world.
Raleigh received her B.F.A. in Musical Theater from the Boston Conservatory and spent her first three years in New York City performing professionally and working in hospitality. She has contributed her talent to the community through benefit performances and outreach to connect with diverse populations through the performing arts.
In her spare time, Raleigh enjoys boating with her husband, skiing, hiking, and supporting local theater.
David Glover is General Manager of the Las Vegas-East operations for Switch, overseeing all facility operations, security and customer relations. David brings more than 20 years of experience in the use and application of various technologies to the enterprise space.
Prior to joining the Switch team in early 2002, David was with the Systems Sales and Engineering Group of ADT Security Services Division of Tyco Fire & Security. During his time at ADT, he was responsible for engineering, consultative sales and project management for the gaming vertical market. Within the first year of entering the gaming market, ADT successfully provided complete turnkey surveillance and security solutions to multiple gaming operations across North America. David was an integral part of the successes ADT achieved in this market.
David has extensive technical security systems experience within the gaming, retail, industrial, financial, military and penal institution markets. In addition, his rounded technical experience includes working at The Howard Hughes Corporation as a security systems consultant and security systems quality assurance auditor.
David has been an active volunteer in his community, as well as within the security industry. He has been a guest speaker for the Community College of Southern Nevada and the Global Gaming Exposition, most notably covering the technical aspects of gaming surveillance. His expertise is frequently sought out to assist in addressing customer relations, technical design and integrated systems issues.
Jay Liebe joined Switch in 2005 and began working on internal operational projects that enhanced the Switch WDMD (Wattage Density Modular Design) and MOD (Modular Optimized Design) Data Center architecture. His focus on development is inclusive of all Switch products and locations.
Since 2007, Liebe has led the efforts on Switch expansion in the United States. This endeavor included due diligence on twelve sites with the goal of identifying two new primary locations for Switch expansion. Those efforts continued through 2009 when expansion planning and focus extended internationally. Rob Roy’s international projects have now widened Liebe’s focus to the support of SUPERNAP International. Liebe has visited and managed relationships in 28 countries since 2013.
Prior to joining Switch, Mr. Liebe spent 15 years focused on large commercial development projects in the United States with a focus on lifestyle and experiential development strategies.
Betsy Fretwell is Senior Vice President of Corporate Development and Public Sector for Switch. She plays a key strategic advisory role to the President of Switch in designing strategies to achieve the company’s vision and corporate objectives. Ms. Fretwell is responsible for corporate expansion and development, the execution of mergers and acquisitions, special projects and strategic partnerships. Additionally, she leads efforts in the deployment of new technologies including autonomous systems, IoT, robotics and big data for digital community initiatives.
Prior to joining Switch, Ms. Fretwell served 27 years of public service in Southern Nevada for Clark County, City of Henderson and the City of Las Vegas in various positions. Her public sector career culminated with nearly 9 years as the Las Vegas City Manager. While serving as City Manager, Fretwell led the City’s emergence as a tech disruptor by establishing an innovation district and hosting the first autonomous shuttle on public roadways. She also attained 100% renewable energy sustainability for the municipal power load.
Fretwell uses her strong knowledge of emerging technologies, connected infrastructure and public sector data needs, to play an essential role in business development, government affairs, corporate expansion, research and development for Switch.
Ms. Fretwell represents Switch on numerous community business boards. She is the Chair of the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance, a Fellow with the National Academy of Public Administration and executive board member for the Vegas Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, Fretwell serves as a board member for Las Vegas Events, Nevada Institute for Autonomous Systems, Henderson Development Authority, The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, Nevada International Women’s Forum and MountainView Hospital.
Scott Gutierrez is the SVP of Connectivity Sales at Switch. Scott works closely with the company’s global carrier partners to ensure the Switch data centers globally are among the most cost-effective and network-enabled facilities in the world. His division also works with clients on all aspects of network design, engineering, negotiations, procurement and provisioning of telecom services from the company’s global carrier partners. The company’s unique fiber optic gateway is one of the most robust network access points (NAP) in North America.
Prior to joining Switch in 2011, Scott spent 14 years as an executive in the telecom industry where he led sales and engineering teams at Level 3 Communications, Abovenet Communications and Airband Communications providing high capacity data, dark fiber and wireless solutions to Fortune 500 enterprise, carrier and government clients.
Scott serves as a Member of the Governor appointed Nevada Broadband Task Force responsible for evaluation of public and private infrastructure needs, creation of broadband policies, and advancing the capabilities in under-served K-12 schools.
Jen Arias is the VP and Controller. She is responsible for Switch’s accounting and reporting functions, including general accounting, AP and AR. She also works closely with the operating departments in overseeing the annual budget process, and works with the Chief Financial Officer in exploring alternatives for Switch’s future growth.
Jen Arias is a CPA and has over 15 years of public accounting experience within a Big 4 public accounting firm. While serving external and internal audit clients in a broad range of industries from multi-national SEC registrants to Native American governments, her primary focus was on managing the day-to-day services to clients including the coordination of technical specialists, transparency in resolving issues, and creating a close, collegial, hands-on working relationship with her clients. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Nevada Society of Certified Public Accountants.
As a native Nevadan, Jen is committed to supporting efforts to make our community a better place to live through volunteering for several youth education organizations. She is a member of the Board of Directors of Girls on the Run Las Vegas, serving as Treasurer. In addition, Jen actively volunteers for Girls Scouts of Southern Nevada, Spread the Word Nevada, Candlelighters of Southern Nevada, and Junior Achievement of Southern Nevada. As a mother of three young daughters, Jen has a passion for organizations that promote and inspire girls to grow into strong, successful women capable of doing anything they set their minds to.
Karlee Richardson is a Sales Engineer for Switch. She is responsible for representing the Switch technology ecosystem and sharing data center services to potential clients from around the world. Karlee's keen ability to listen to clients enables her to deliver solutions and opportunities that enhance their overall experience during new installations, as well as for years to come.
Prior to joining Switch, Karlee was the Vice President of Development for one of the top five largest law firms in Las Vegas, and headed up the sales team for that firm's start-up software company.
A Las Vegas native, Karlee is a former model and aerialist, with a passion for scrapbooking. She's a published scrapbook designer and has volunteered in the community creating scrapbooks for the more than 120 at risk youth in one of Nevada's local foster care programs. In addition, Karlee served as a committee head for a local Las Vegas charity that raises money for a pediatric cancer treatment facility.
Laura Mach is the Tour Traffic Controller at Switch. Her responsibilities include coordinating prospective and current customer tours of the Switch data center facilities as well as organizing high-profile meetings. She also assists the Colocation, Networking and Cloud sales teams. Laura joined the company in 2012.
Laura’s organizational and juggling skills are a huge asset to the company. Her coordination of the executive teams, security teams and management of the tour calendar are the sole reason that Switch visitors consistently experience excellence during their unique experience. Her talent of perfecting every touch point during tours, large-scale events or simple world-changing partner meetings is invaluable.
Prior to joining Switch, Laura worked as a personal assistant in Los Angeles in the entertainment industry. She also enjoyed managing her own startup company, Pet LA, which she founded and maintained for four years before relocating to Las Vegas, Nevada.
Laura loves supporting animal rescue organizations and volunteers with Animal Network in Las Vegas. She also partakes in community outreach through the Awesome Nerdy Girls. They hosts fundraisers, bake sales, and craft sales to raise money for different organizations in Las Vegas. The group prides itself on community and giving girls a safe haven to get their nerd on.
Jeff Oberschelp is the head of Client Architecture for Switch. Jeff and his team work closely with clients to explore and leverage all of the unique assets present at Switch. They capture client perspective and success stories which are curated and shared along with the ever-changing Switch data center ecosystem innovations. The team’s goal is to ensure that Switch clients enjoy the best data center value and experience on earth.
Prior to joining Switch, Jeff was the vice president and general manager of CenturyLink where he developed and deployed PrismTV in the company’s first major metro market. He also held executive positions with Verizon SuperPages and McLeodUSA. In all of his roles, Jeff scaled new business segments and refined existing ones to drive exceptional top and bottom line growth.
Jeff serves on the boards of The Nevada Military Support Alliance and the UNLV Foundation Advisory Board.
Angel Chitren is a Sales Executive at Switch. She is responsible for colocation sales and assisting clients through the sales process. Angel provides an unforgettable tour experience of the Switch ecosystem, delivers the Switch story with excellence and brings world-class customer service to prospective and current clients.
Prior to joining Switch in 2019, Angel spent 23 years as an Account Executive in Las Vegas, working at both the CBS (KLAS) and FOX (KVVU) affiliates. In this role, she was responsible for creating new business and maintaining client relationships, while developing integrative and creative sales initiatives to increase their market share.
Angel holds a B.S. in Business, with an emphasis in Management from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
In her free time, Angel enjoys fitness, reading books, traveling and spending time with her family and friends.
Wendy Pope is the Senior Channel Operations Manager at Switch. She is responsible for educating, supporting and developing new and existing channel agents, partners and brokers of Switch data centers. Wendy is also responsible for Switch channel sales operations. She ensures all operational policy and procedures are effectively communicated and enforced.
Wendy’s area of focus is to build lasting partner relationships, support the channel community and serve as a Switch ambassador across the U.S. channel base.
Prior to joining Switch in 2016, Wendy was the Business Analyst and International Trade Manager for the Nevada’s Governor’s Office of Economic Development. Her previous positions involved securing new companies, domestically and internationally, to take residence in Nevada. She also worked on several international trade missions for the State, building relations with foreign governments and businesses to encourage expansion and interest in the State of Nevada.
Wendy earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of California, Irvine. She loves to travel, spend time with family and experience new adventures.
Michael Wiley is the Senior Vice President of Security for Switch. With over 15 years of leadership experience in security management, Michael is responsible for overseeing all surveillance, physical security operations and personnel at Switch, under the authority of the company’s CSO.
Michael strives to ensure that Switch is the recognized global leader in data center security by both clients and local agencies. He works closely with our customers to maintain industry specific compliance and to deliver the highest levels of security in the industry, pioneered by Switch.
Prior to joining Switch in 2004, Michael spent four years in the United States Marine Corps infantry as a non-commissioned officer and sergeant, with deployments pre and post 9/11. Additionally, he is accredited as a certified anti-terrorism specialist.
Michael is a dedicated professional who continues to give back to the security industry through his voluntary leadership. He currently holds the position of Las Vegas Chapter Chairman for the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS), and he previously served as both Programs Chair and Chapter Secretary for this organization. In 2014, Michael graduated from the FBI Citizens Academy and is a member of the FBILVCAAA.
Brian Huff is the Executive Vice President of Prime Campus Ecosystem Oversight for Switch. He joined the team in 2005 as an entry-level technician and, in a true success story, was promoted through the ranks. Today he leads the facilities operations team through expansion, design and processes that help make the Switch data centers operate. Brian has a background in management, design, and fabrication in the automotive industry.
Brian has built a team of skilled professionals to facilitate the day-to-day operations and provide an exceptional customer experience. Brian’s team is responsible for client infrastructure, electrical installations, heat containment and maintenance. This team, with Brian’s direction, has become a group of elite data center professionals that are committed to excellence in a mission critical environment.
Brian works closely with CEO and Founder Rob Roy on research and development projects to ensure Switch Technology remains the most advanced data center ecosystem in the world. With Rob Roy’s vision and Brian’s fabrication background, the process of prototype to finished product is quick and easy.
Shannon Bischel is a Senior Account Manager at Switch. She works directly with clients to learn about their business and identify how Switch’s ecosystem can be utilized to meet their individual needs. Her focus and expertise is centered around delivering the industry’s best customer service to Switch’s clients.
Prior to joining Switch, Shannon worked at KLAS (CBS affiliate) for over 23 years. In this role, she was responsible for developing and maintaining client relationships, while building effective multi-channel marketing campaigns. Although television marketing was her backbone, her interest in digital and mobile marketing enabled Shannon to quickly become a leading Account Executive.
Shannon holds a B.A. in Communications with an emphasis in Broadcasting from University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
In her free time, Shannon loves to read, do puzzles, binge-watch great shows and enjoy the company of family and friends.
Amanda Crawford is a Sales Associate at Switch. She is responsible for colocation sales and assisting clients through the sales process. Amanda provides an unforgettable tour experience of the Switch ecosystem, delivers the Switch story with excellence and brings world-class customer service to prospective and current clients.
Prior to joining Switch in 2017, Amanda spent 20 years as a News Anchor, News Reporter, and Broadcast Meteorologist in Reno, Las Vegas, Dallas and Sacramento.
Amanda is very passionate about raising organ donor awareness, having donated a kidney to her sister in 1995. She also has a deep compassion for pets and volunteers her time to raise awareness of the importance to spay and neuter. Amanda works with several northern Nevada animal rescue groups and provides a home to five rescue pets of her own.
Amanda attended the University of Nevada-Reno and the Mississippi State University Broadcast Meteorology Program. She enjoys travel with her family as well as playing golf and tennis.
Chris Osiecki is the Senior Vice President of Construction for Switch. With more than 30 years of experience managing ground-up construction, Chris provides oversight of the general contractors and subcontractors on all Switch new construction projects. Chris works closely alongside CEO and Founder, Rob Roy and Executive Vice President of Construction, Terri Borden to develop all new projects. In collaboration with Switch senior management, Chris also develops future business and strategic planning, while continuously improving current systems and processes.
Prior to joining Switch in 2011, Chris was a Project Superintendent at Martin Harris Construction for 20 years. Chris worked closely with architects, engineers and owners to deliver projects in excess of $100 million dollars. Prior to working at Martin Harris Construction, he worked as a carpenter framing custom homes in the Las Vegas valley. Chris is an active supporter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
Chelsea Phillips is the VP of Engagement. In this role, she provides logistical support for the Smart City Development Division of Switch and manages day to day communications and tactical team projects. Chelsea also oversees the strategic mission and operations of Rob Roy’s Innevation Center.
Chelsea has created opportunities for local startups, entrepreneurs, investors, educators and government agencies to collaborate and form lasting and beneficial relationships. Her leadership and focus was pivotal to advancing Innevation’s mission of boosting and diversifying the Nevada economy.
Prior to joining Switch, Chelsea worked for the Republican National Committee and the Willard InterContinental Hotel in Washington, D.C.
Chelsea is a proud UNLV alumni and enjoys spending her free time with family and traveling to new places. She is passionate about working to create a better Nevada and a smarter world.
Natalie Stewart is the VP of Government and Public Affairs for Switch. She brings extensive experience in political and public relations, campaign and ethics compliance, public policy development, and advocacy to her work at Switch.
Natalie is part of the Strategy team that develops and implements the company’s public policy work in the areas including technology, energy policy, environmental and sustainability initiatives, education and economic development. Natalie also directs Switch’s Michigan-specific government affairs efforts and works closely on client development strategies.
Prior to joining Switch, Natalie’s distinguished career included leadership positions with two Speakers of the Michigan House of Representatives, the Office of Michigan Attorney General, and the Michigan Secretary of State. Natalie also worked in the United States Senate and as a federal lobbyist for the Associated Builders and Contractors in Washington, D.C.
A native Michigander, Natalie is active in the community and serves on the key committees of the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, Energy Advisory Committee-City of Grand Rapids, and MICHauto. Natalie has a B.A. from Boston College and Masters work in public policy through Michigan State University.
A self-proclaimed hockey and soccer mom, you can often find Natalie in a rink or on the sidelines cheering for her three children and pursuing her passion for travel and cooking.
Alise Porto joined the Switch team in 2015 and has held several key senior management roles, currently serving as Vice President of Sustainability & Strategic Initiatives. As an invaluable member of the Sustainability Team, she is responsible for the oversight of Switch’s environmental, social and governance initiatives (ESG), and is responsible for implementing sustainable energy and resource management strategies that align with the company’s overall policies and goals of being environmentally and socially sustainable, in partnership with the Policy team.
In addition, she leads Switch’s energy procurement strategy, and energy resources, including Switch’s retail electric provider activities in Texas and various resource management initiatives. She similarly leads the development and execution of special projects associated with business development and innovative sustainable water resource management.
Alise also co-leads the Switch Newsroom team that is responsible for public relations, corporate communications and corporate events and represents the companies interests at the Nevada Legislature.
Alise received her degree from University of Nevada Las Vegas and completed the University of California Berkeley Sustainable Capitalism & ESG program. She is native to Nevada, loves spending time with her family, coaching her children’s sport’s teams, cooking and traveling.
