AT&T has appointed Venessa Harrison to the position of President, Southeast Coastal States, where she will lead the company’s strategy, policy and corporate affairs activities, as well as guide governmental and community policy decisions in Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina. 

Venessa will remain in Atlanta where she continues to oversee day-to-day operations of AT&T Georgia External Affairs. 

“I’m proud to lead our team in Georgia and across the Southeast Coastal States and as we continue to develop innovative ways to better serve our customers and communities,” said Harrison. “At AT&T, we are committed to connections that offer a future of possibilities, and I look forward to continuing our efforts to help close the digital divide, supporting our public safety community through FirstNet® and driving innovation and economic impact to create equitable opportunities for all.”

A Raleigh native, Harrison began her telecommunications career three decades ago as a telephone operator. She subsequently pursued a career-development opportunity in the network organization, quickly rising through the ranks of management within AT&T with increasing responsibility in the network, business, regulatory and external affairs departments. Prior to her current position, Harrison served for three years as president of Georgia and six years as president of AT&T North Carolina.

In addition to her corporate responsibilities, Harrison is committed to helping make a difference in the community and in the lives of others. She currently serves as member of North Carolina A&T State University Board of Trustees, the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce Executive Board of Directors, the Georgia Historical Society Board of Directors, Georgia Research Alliance Board of Directors, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the Atlanta Committee for Progress Board of Directors, the Atlanta Police Foundation Board of Directors, the Agnes Scott College Advisory Board of Visitors and the Rotary Club of Atlanta. 

Harrison holds a Business Administration degree from the University of Phoenix. She is a proud wife, mother and grandmother.