As Columbus’ chief technology officer, Darren Richer oversees all aspects of the company’s delivery of retail broadband enabled services. Prior to his promotion to cto in 2010, Darren was an original member of the Columbus management team and in his role as Vice President of Network Infrastructure he was responsible for the deployment of Columbus’ video over IP networks and services. Darren is indisputably a digital video and long haul transport specialist and this unique combination of IP and telecommunications experience positions Columbus well to exploit the full possibilities of broadband as the company launches its triple play of video, voice and data services throughout its operating region.

Prior to joining Columbus, Darren was the Director of Telecommunications for Persona Communications, a position he held from 1999 to 2004. In 2000, Mr. Richer oversaw the implementation of the first open access network in North America, establishing the financial and technical feasibility of the project. This launch with AOL Canada opened the way for third party access to broadband infrastructure in Canada.

Prior to joining Persona, Mr. Richer was extensively involved in public sector IT where he was responsible for a 70+ site corporate Wide Area Network (WAN) and was the developer of several web-enabled HR, Payroll and Accounting tools.

Mr. Richer is a Canadian citizen and resides in Florida.