Carl Russo

Carl has served as chairman since July 2021. Carl previously served as Calix’s chief executive officer from December 2002 through September 2022 and as Calix’s president from December 2002 until January 2021. As Calix’s chairman of the board, Carl brings substantial expertise and knowledge regarding our business strategy, markets and operations to Calix’s board of directors. He also brings to the Board an extensive background in the telecommunications and networking technology industries.

From November 1999 to May 2002, Carl served as vice president of optical strategy and group vice president of optical networking of Cisco Systems, Inc. From April 1998 to October 1999, he served as president and chief executive officer of Cerent Corporation, which was acquired by Cisco. From April 1995 to April 1998, Carl served in various capacities, including as chief operating officer, at Xircom, Inc., which was acquired by Intel Corporation. Previously, he served as senior vice president and general manager for the hyperchannel networking group of Network Systems Corporation and as vice president and general manager of the data networking products division of AT&T Paradyne Corporation. Carl served on the board of directors of Vital Network Services, Inc., a privately-held company delivering network lifecycle services, and Xirrus, Inc., a privately-held company providing products that enable high-performance wireless networks.

Carl attended Swarthmore College and previously served on its board of managers.