Author of
Author of Obstacles Welcome
My Inspirational Journey
I came to the U.S. alone at the age 10 without a penny in my pocket. Obstacles Welcome chronicles my inspirational journey from Cuba to the pinnacle of professional success in the U.S. It describes the incredible obstacles I overcame to reach the American Dream and provides a framework that everyone can use to achieve their own dreams.
My Latest Advice
I’m a regular columnist for LatinoLeaders magazine and a LinkedIn Influencer
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My Journey
1960s
Cuba
I was born in Cuba seven years before Castro took control of the country. This photo shows my family on vacation. Mom is holding my sister Barbara, Dad is in the background and I’m the one enjoying an ice-cream cone while showing off my physique.
1962
Arrival in the United States
This is one of my first pictures in the United States. It was taken at school and I remember the shirt because it was my favorite and prized possession. In fact, it was one of the few shirts I had at the time.
1985
Chicago
My wife, Maria, and our sons David and Mark at Christmas. This photo was taken in front of a friend’s fireplace in Naperville, Illinois.
1996
Atlanta Olympics
I had the honor of carrying the Olympic torch for the 1996 Atlanta Olympic games.
2002 – 2004
President BellSouth Latin America
I was responsible for wireless operations serving more than 11 million customers in 11 countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Venezuela, and Uruguay).
2004 – 2006
COO Cingular Wireless
I was responsible for sales, marketing, network operations, technology planning, and customer service. I was also responsible for the integration of Cingular Wireless and AT&T Wireless.
2007 – 2014
President & CEO AT&T Mobility
I was responsible for an organization that, at the time, served 77 million customers and generated more than $49 billion in annual revenue with more that 50,000 employees. In October 2008, I also assumed responsibility for AT&T’s Consumer Markets.
2009
Obstacles Welcome
My book is published, allowing me to share with a wider audience the lessons learned in business and in life along my journey from Cuba to Corporate America.
2009
Current Board Member
Former Chairman
JA Worldwide
Proud to serve an organization that each year reaches more than 10 million young people in over 100 countries. JA’s helps young people prepare to get a job—or to create a new one.
2010
Chairman CTIA
The Wireless Association is an international non-profit membership organization that has represented the wireless industry since 1984.
2011
Doctor of Humane Letters
My alma mater, Florida Atlantic University, honored with a Doctor of Humane Letters, Honoris Causa.
2014
President & CEO
I’m appointed President and CEO of AT&T Mobile & Business Solutions.
2016
Vice Chairman & CEO
I’m appointed Vice Chairman of AT&T Inc. and CEO of Business Solutions and International.
