Charter Nabs New CEO From Cablevision

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Charter Communications has snatched its new chief executive officer from a rival cableco.

Charter this week named Thomas Rutledge its new CEO, effective Feb. 13, 2012. Rutledge, who’s leaving Cablevision where he served as COO for seven years, will also take a seat on Charter’s board of directors.

Rutledge is a 34-year cable industry veteran, previously president of Time Warner Cable. He began his career in 1977 at American Television and Communications (ATC), a predecessor company of Time Warner Cable.  Rutledge is on the board of the National Cable and Telecommunications Association (NCTA), and served as chairman of the NCTA from 2008-2010.

Rutledge succeeds Michael Lovett, who announced in October his plan to step down as president and CEO.

“After conducting a comprehensive search process, the board is delighted to welcome Tom to the Charter team,” said Eric L. Zinterhofer, chairman of the board of Charter. “Tom is a highly accomplished executive with a long track record of success.  He has the rare combination of operational expertise and strategic vision to lead Charter through its promising next phase of growth.  We look forward to working with him.  On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would also like to thank Mike for his many contributions to Charter over the past eight years and for helping to establish a sound strategic and financial footing for the Company during that time.  We wish him the best for the future.”

“Charter is an outstanding company with great people, products, assets and growth opportunities,” said Rutledge. ” I am honored to have been chosen for this role and look forward to working with the Charter team to provide superior products and services to our customers, create an exciting work environment for our employees and build continued value for our shareholders.  I have great respect for what Mike has achieved with the Company and appreciate his commitment to ensuring a smooth transition.”