Managed network and cloud services provider (CSP) EarthLink, ranked first on the MSPmentor Top 501 list for 2014, last week named longtime executive Peter Chronis to a newly created role: chief security officer. Chronis previously served as EarthLink’s vice president of information security and management.

The appointment marks the first time EarthLink has elevated the role of security to the C-level.

Some of Chronis’ accomplishments as EarthLink’s VP of information security and management included:

Chronis also has more than 15 years of experience using technology to manage risk in the financial services, healthcare, IT services and telecommunications industries.

He commented on the announcement in a prepared statement:

“Protecting customers has been part of EarthLink’s DNA for 20 years. Today’s regulatory and threat landscape is more complex and our customers rely on EarthLink to serve as a trusted advisor. Our role in helping customers achieve their compliance objectives, keep their networks and data secure and have a safe online experience has never been more important. We’re committed to continuing to develop leading-edge information and network security products and services.”

Rick C. Froehlich, executive vice president of EarthLink’s product and consumer division, added he believes Chronis’ appointment reflects his company’s commitment to its customers. 

“Peter is a security evangelist and thought-leader, and I’m confident that he will continue to innovate with next-generation network security services and sophisticated cyber threat management techniques and strategies,” Froehlich said.

In December 2013, Earthlink named Joseph R. Eazor as president and CEO.

EarthLink earned $297.3 million in total revenue in the first three months of 2014.

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