Bob Udell serves as Vice Chairman of Fidium (formerly Consolidated Communications) having recently retired from his role as President and CEO. Bob played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s mission of turning technology into solutions that enrich how communities work and live.

Appointed CEO in 2015, Bob guided the organization through a significant period of transformation and growth. Under his leadership, the company strengthened its position as a top‑10 U.S. fiber provider and expanded into a 20+ state footprint. With more than 35 years of telecommunications leadership experience, Bob has dedicated his career to advancing broadband availability in unserved and underserved communities through disciplined growth, operational excellence, and accountability to investors, customers, and employees.

Before joining Consolidated, Bob held multiple executive roles at TXU Communications, including Executive Vice President of Business Development, Regulatory and Administration, and Chief Operating Officer. He also served in senior leadership positions at McLeodUSA as Senior Vice President of Network Services and Vice President and General Manager of Indiana operations, following foundational management roles at Bell Atlantic in operations, carrier sales, and marketing.

Bob serves on the USTelecom Board of Directors. He holds both a master’s degree in business administration and a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Pittsburgh, and he completed the Advanced Technology Innovations Program at Carnegie Mellon University.