Former Chief Strategy & Revenue Officer to succeed Carl Grivner as FLAG accelerates Vision 2030 ambitions
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM, 4 August 2026 – FLAG, one of the world’s largest privately owned subsea cable operators, today announced a leadership transition that will take effect on 1 October 2026, as the company enters its next phase of growth.
Carl Grivner will step down as Chief Executive Officer and assume the role of Non-Executive Chairman. Paul Abfalter, currently Chief Strategy & Revenue Officer, will succeed him as CEO.
Over the past six years, Carl has guided FLAG through a period of significant transformation and growth, strengthening FLAG’s position in the market and laying a strong foundation for the future.
Paul brings more than two decades of experience in global telecommunications. Since joining FLAG in 2024, he has helped shape the company’s strategic direction, driving commercial growth and supporting its long-term expansion plans.
Paul’s appointment reflects FLAG’s continued focus on strengthening its global network and delivering long-term value for customers, partners and stakeholders. His deep knowledge of the business and extensive industry experience positions him well to lead FLAG through its next phase of growth.
The transition supports FLAG’s Vision 2030 strategy, which is centred on investing in critical fibre infrastructure to expand network reach, enhance route diversity and resilience, and meet the evolving connectivity needs of customers around the world.
More information about FLAG’s global network and connectivity solutions is available at www.flagtel.com.
About FLAG
FLAG is one of the largest privately owned subsea cable operators globally. With a network spanning 180+ countries, the company delivers high-speed digital connectivity via seven subsea and six terrestrial cables. Serving hyperscalers and enterprises, FLAG offers flexible capacity solutions across key routes in Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the USA ensuring reliable, neutral connectivity for mission-critical data. Additionally, the company provides scalable modular data centres for high-performance computing and storage at edge locations and cable landing stations. https://flagtel.com/
Media contact
PR Archives: Latest, By Company, By Date