Qwest CEO to serve on presidential panel

NSTAC

Richard Notebaert, chairman and chief executive officer of Qwest Communications International Inc., has been appointed by President Bush to the National Security Telecommunications Advisory Committee.

In a statement announcing the appointment, Notebaert said his service on the committee will not distract him from running Qwest, which is trying to challenge telecommunications companies in government and commercial markets.

The committee is composed of CEOs from telecom and technology firms, and advises White House officials on policy and technical issues related to telecommunications, information assurance, infrastructure protection, and other security and emergency preparedness concerns.

"It is a privilege to serve on such an essential committee, particularly given the increased awareness of the importance of national security," said Notebaert in the statement.

James Payne, senior vice president and general manager of Qwest's government services division, serves on the committee's Industry Executive Subcommittee.