John lead business management during the emergence of the telecommunications industry. He developed and implemented the first consumer marketing retail channel for The New Jersey Bell Telephone Company, an AT&T Operating Company. Powell was the first to implement the Bell System retail concept and he opened the first AT&T Phone Center.

As one of the leaders of the historic AT&T break up, Powell directed key elements of the restructure of the Bell Operating Companies from subsidiaries of AT&T to fully independent entities (the “Baby Bells”) during the federally mandated divestiture.

Powell founded and led the first AT&T national consumer sales and marketing organization in the post divestiture environment as sales vice president with accountability for more than $2 billion in annual revenue.

He directed the negotiation and implementation of strategic national partnerships between AT&T and the leading U.S. corporations in the hospitality, travel and government sectors.

Powell was named associated athletic director for marketing and development, The Pennsylvania State University, where he:

• led marketing and promotions for all intercollegiate sports,
• developed the Nittany Lion Corporate Partnership Program,
• directed athletic development for 29 men’s and women’s sports,
• Penn State Radio and TV Network oversight, and
• directed Nittany Lion Club administration.

Education

The Pennsylvania State University, BA – Communications
The Wharton School, The University of Pennsylvania, MBA – Marketing