Lightpath's CFO Navigates the Fiber Optic Revolution

Lightpath's newly-appointed CFO, Rachel Stack, is focused on ensuring the finance team is well-prepared to keep the fiber optic company's growth on track as the industry continues to expand. With a strong operational team and a strategic focus, Stack is determined to train and mentor the next generation of finance professionals to think outside the box and drive Lightpath's success in the rapidly evolving fiber optic landscape.

Unlocking the Potential of Lightpath's Finance Team

Fostering Talent and Strategic Thinking

Lightpath's finance team is well-versed in operational excellence, but Stack sees an opportunity to strengthen the strategic side of the business. As the new CFO, she is committed to developing the talent of the team, particularly those just starting their careers. Stack believes it's crucial to train these new entrants to "think outside the box and think more strategically" to position Lightpath for continued growth.

Bridging the Experience Gap

One of the key draws of Lightpath for Stack was the company's approach to talent development. Lightpath looks for recent graduates or those at the beginning of their careers and invests the resources to train them in the company's processes. As the new CFO, Stack recognizes the importance of taking the time to understand the needs of these newer finance professionals and sharing her own 20 years of experience to help them succeed.

Navigating the Transition to a Public Company

Moving from a private company like Cologix to Lightpath, a subsidiary of a public company, requires a shift in perspective for Stack. While both companies operate in the digital infrastructure space, the strategic focus and sales motions differ. As CFO, Stack is learning to navigate the broader suite of products and services Lightpath offers, as well as how the team is working to drive value from each of these offerings.

Embracing the "Honeymoon Period"

As a newly-arrived CFO, Stack emphasizes the importance of taking the time to listen, understand the company's processes, and identify its strengths and weaknesses before implementing any significant changes. She encourages other incoming executives to embrace the "honeymoon period" and ask questions, even if they seem "stupid," to gain a fresh perspective on how the company operates.

Preparing for the Fiber Optic Boom

The fiber optic industry is poised for significant growth, with the market expected to double in the next few years, from $3.2 billion in 2023 to $6.8 billion by 2029. Stack recognizes that this expansion, driven by the rise of technologies like artificial intelligence, presents both opportunities and challenges for Lightpath.

Driving Continued Growth

As Lightpath's new CFO, Stack is focused on ensuring the company continues its steady growth trajectory. With a strong operational team and a strategic focus on developing talent, she is well-positioned to navigate the evolving fiber optic landscape and capitalize on the industry's projected boom. By fostering a culture of innovation and strategic thinking, Stack aims to position Lightpath as a leader in the digital infrastructure space.