Tom Sullivan Named FCC Intl. Bureau Chief

FCC Chairman Ajit Pai today announced that the agency has chosen Tom Sullivan to serve as chief of the FCC’s International Bureau, continuing the work he has been doing as acting chief.

“With a growing number of communications issues now having international implications, it is more critical than ever that we have a committed team of professionals working with our international partners to advance common interests,” Pai said. “I’m therefore pleased that Tom has agreed to continue to lead our great International Bureau team. During my first months as chairman, I have come to rely on his wise counsel. He brings a tremendous depth and breadth of experience to the job, and I know that he can be counted on to represent our country well in our interactions with other countries and in managing our communications needs in space.”

The International Bureau administers international telecommunications and satellite programs and policies, including licensing and regulatory functions. The bureau also promotes pro-competitive policies abroad, coordinates global spectrum and telecommunications activities, and advocates U.S. interests internationally.

Prior to his appointment to acting chief, Sullivan was an associate bureau chief and the chief of staff for the bureau he now leads. He has served in a variety of positions within the International Bureau and the FCC’s Office of Managing Director.

He joined the commission in 1991 after receiving his master’s degree in public policy from the University of Michigan. He received his bachelor’s degree in economics and political science from the University of Michigan in 1990.