LiveOak Fiber Expands Board Leadership
LiveOak Fiber, a rapidly growing fiber-to-the-home internet provider, has announced a significant leadership transition within its Board of Directors. The company is welcoming two accomplished industry veterans, Brian Stading and Richard Clark, to guide its strategic direction as the company continues to expand its footprint in the competitive fiber optics market.
The transition comes as Jan Geldmacher, a founding board member, steps down to pursue a new leadership opportunity with AI computing company Cornami. However, Geldmacher will remain a shareholder and advisor, continuing to support LiveOak Fiber's mission.
A New Era with Experienced Leadership
Brian Stading brings over three decades of experience in telecommunications, digital infrastructure, and executive leadership to the LiveOak Fiber Board. His recent tenure as CEO of Lumos was marked by considerable growth, taking the firm through a transformation that expanded its reach to over one million homes. Stading played a crucial role in Lumos’ groundbreaking partnership with T-Mobile, earning it recognition as TMT Finance's 2025 Fiber Deal of the Year. Now, he is eager to lend his expertise to LiveOak Fiber.
Stading emphasizes, "LiveOak Fiber has created an impressive platform with a strong culture and an outstanding reputation for serving customers and communities. I look forward to working alongside the Board and leadership team to help the company extend its reach and deliver exceptional fiber experiences across the Southeast."
Richard Clark is another significant addition who has been instrumental in overseeing expansions at several broadband companies including FirstLight, OTELCO, and GoNetspeed. At the helm of GoNetspeed since 2021, his leadership has facilitated a consolidation strategy that transformed it into one of the large independent fiber platforms navigating the Northeast market.
Clark stated, "LiveOak Fiber has established itself as one of the most compelling growth stories in the fiber industry. I am excited to join the Board and contribute to the company’s momentum, strong customer-centric culture, and dedication to building critical infrastructure for the communities it serves."
Continued Commitment to Fiber Expansion
The additions of Stading and Clark come at a pivotal time as LiveOak Fiber actively invests in next-generation fiber infrastructure throughout Florida and Georgia. The firm has seen considerable institutional investment since its inception and has successfully penetrated high-demand markets, solidifying its place as a leading provider of reliable, high-speed fiber internet.
Filip Guz, a Partner at InfraRed Capital Partners and board member of LiveOak Fiber, noted, “As LiveOak Fiber enters its next chapter, adding leaders of Brian and Richard's caliber further strengthens an already exceptional Board. Their vast experience in building high-performing fiber businesses will be invaluable as the company continues expanding its network and creating long-term value for stakeholders."
He also expressed gratitude towards Jan Geldmacher for his profound leadership during the initial growth stages of LiveOak Fiber, saying, "Jan has been a strategic force on our Board since day one. His guidance helped establish a strong foundation for the company's continued success and growth."
Jan Geldmacher played a foundational role in steering the company through multiple funding rounds and critical market expansions, shaping strategies that positioned LiveOak on solid footing. He expressed his thanks to the team, stating, "I have worked closely alongside Shane Schilling since the inception of LiveOak, and his vision combined with the collective efforts of the team turned our shared idea into a substantial company. I am deeply grateful for my journey with LiveOak Fiber and excited for what lies ahead."
About LiveOak Fiber
LiveOak Fiber is committed to delivering high-speed, reliable fiber internet to communities across Florida and Georgia, going beyond just connectivity to foster economic development and enhance quality of life. Stay connected with LiveOak Fiber and learn more about its community transformation efforts by visiting
www.liveoakfiber.com and following them on LinkedIn, X, and Facebook.