JONESBORO, Ark., April 2, 2025 – Ritter Communications, a leader in broadband solutions delivering best-in-class speed and reliability, announces the retirement of Executive Chairman Alan Morse, effective April 30, after more than a decade of dedicated leadership to the company. Morse joined the company as President in 2014, was promoted to Chief Executive Officer in 2019, and moved into the role of Executive Chairman in January 2024.
Morse led Ritter Communications through a remarkable period of growth and expansion, ensuring customers across the Mid-South have access to high-speed internet and advanced telecommunications services. Under his leadership, Ritter Communications expanded into new states and more than doubled the communities served, representing a direct investment of more than $500 million in network expansion.
During Morse’s tenure, Ritter Communications saw significant advancements in infrastructure, service offerings and customer reach. He oversaw the launch of the company’s world-class Data Technology Center, providing customers with advanced business services and secure data center solutions. He also spearheaded the launch of RightFiber, Ritter Communications fiber-to-the-home service, delivering internet speeds up to 5 Gig to residents across the company's expanding service area.
Morse’s leadership was particularly vital during the coronavirus pandemic when demand for reliable broadband services surged. Under his guidance, Ritter Communications swiftly adapted to the unprecedented challenges by expanding network capacity, supporting remote learning and work environments, and ensuring customers remained connected during this critical time. His commitment to employees and customers helped the organization navigate uncertainty while maintaining uncompromising service excellence.
“Alan has been an extraordinary leader and mentor, shaping the foundation of our company’s success. His role as Executive Chairman has ensured a seamless transition as I stepped into the CEO position,” said Ritter Communications CEO Heath Simpson. “I am honored to carry forward our shared vision of connecting communities with best-in-class technology. His impact is immeasurable, and his legacy of innovation will continue to inspire and drive us for decades to come. We’re grateful for his leadership and wish him the best in his retirement.”
“Alan’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping Ritter Communications into the industry leader it is today while preserving its legacy of excellence,” said Chad Crank, managing director of Grain Management, the company’s majority equity partner. “His vision and dedication have driven remarkable growth, leaving a lasting impact on the company. We are grateful for his contributions and congratulate him on his well-earned retirement.”
Morse has served on the board of directors for Jonesboro Unlimited and the American Cancer Society in Arkansas. While he is retiring as a member of the executive team, Morse will continue to serve as a member of the company’s Board of Directors.
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About Ritter Communications:
Ritter Communications is the largest privately held telecommunications provider serving exclusively the Mid-South, offering world-class broadband fiber, telecom, video, and data center services. The company has grown rapidly over the years, investing millions recently in technology infrastructure and is now serving 158 communities and more than 60,000 customers in Arkansas, Tennessee, Texas, Missouri, Kentucky and Louisiana. Headquartered in Jonesboro, Arkansas, Ritter Communications invests heavily in the communities it serves by deploying proven, best-in-class infrastructure and technology, while coupling it with a world-class customer-focused experience. For more information visit RitterCommunications.com.
About RightFiber:
RightFiber proudly serves homes, schools and businesses across the Mid-South with advanced communications technology and is known as a premier bandwidth infrastructure platform providing broadband fiber, telecom, video and hosted services. RightFiber invests heavily in the communities served by deploying best-in-class technology while coupling it with a world-class customer-focused experience. A brand of Ritter Communications, RightFiber is headquartered in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Ritter Communications serves customers in Arkansas, Tennessee, Texas, Missouri, Kentucky and Louisiana. RightFiber brings over 115 years of experience and is committed to doing Right by You. For more information, visit RightFiber.com.
About Grain Management:
Founded in 2007, Grain Management is a leading, global investment firm. We believe broadband and digital infrastructure are foundational to the tech-enabled transformation occurring across all industries and facets of society. Our global team of seasoned and diverse professionals share a collective passion for the power of connectivity to strengthen communities and unlock human potential for all.
We specialize in digital infrastructure and are a trusted solutions provider to the broadband and communications industry. Our unique combination of sector knowledge, experience as operators, and disciplined analytical approach guide our differentiated investment strategy across fiber networks, data centers, wireless spectrum, cell towers, as well as managed and infrastructure services.
