Ex-Sky CEO Tony Ball becomes chairman of AirTies

WiFi specialist Airties has named Tony Ball, former chairman of Kabel Deutschland and CEO of BSkyB, and current senior advisor of private equity outfit Providence Equity Partners, as its new chairman.

Tony Ball

The company has also announced that it is moving its corporate headquarters is moving to Paris, France to support its global expansion plans.

Philippe Alcaras will continue to serve as CEO of Airties.

The announcements come as part of the completion of the acquisition of the company by Providence.

The WiFi solutions specialist announced in April that its board and principal shareholders, including evergreen equity investor Invus had agreed to the acqusition. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Airties said that Providence’s investment would assist it with accelerating growth into new markets globally, as well as funding additional R&D and product innovation, and expanding its sales, marketing, and recruitment efforts globally.

“We are excited to embark on this new stage in Airties’ growth, working with Providence as we look to expand our market position and further delight our customers, partners, and employees. We are also particularly fortunate, and grateful, to have Tony Ball serve as Chairman of the Board. Tony’s established record of leadership within the industry will be invaluable as we seek to accelerate growth globally and serve our worldwide customers,” said Alcaras.

“Airties is renowned for delivering among the best managed Wi-Fi solutions that enable exceptional end-user experiences to many of the most respected broadband service providers around the world.  am thrilled to have the opportunity to work alongside Philippe, and his team, to expand upon that success and explore new business opportunities. Millions of homes rely upon Airties to stay connected, productive, and entertained, and it’s exciting to believe we are still in the early stages of market penetration and global adoption,” said Ball.