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The GSMA has elected a new Board of Directors for a two-year term beginning 1 January 2027, bringing together senior executives from many of the world's largest mobile network operators as the industry prepares for what it describes as a new era of connectivity and artificial intelligence.

The 26-member board will serve until 31 December 2028 and includes representatives from operators across Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East and the Americas. Members come from companies including AT&T, Bharti Airtel, Deutsche Telekom, MTN, Orange, Reliance Jio, Telefónica, Verizon, Vodafone and China Telecom.

Announcing the appointments, GSMA Chair Gopal Vittal said the mobile industry is entering a period of significant transformation driven by advanced networks, AI and open digital platforms.

"The mobile industry is entering a new era in which advanced networks, AI and open digital platforms can create significant economic and societal value," Vittal said. He added that the organisation's priorities would include accelerating investment and innovation, strengthening digital safety and trust, and ensuring that the benefits of connectivity and AI reach businesses and communities worldwide.

Vittal also welcomed both newly elected and returning board members and thanked outgoing directors for their service.

The board includes chief executives, strategy leaders and senior executives from a broad range of operators. Among them are Allison Kirkby of BT, Ralph Mupita of MTN, Mike Fries of Liberty Global, Margherita Della Valle of Vodafone, Vicki Brady of Telstra, Olayan Alwetaid of STC and Mathew Oommen of Reliance Jio.

Bharti Airtel Executive Vice Chairman Gopal Vittal will continue to serve on the board, while China Mobile's representative is expected to be nominated at a later date.

The GSMA said the board reflects the diversity of the global mobile ecosystem, combining representation from some of the world's largest telecommunications groups with smaller independent operators.

The organisation represents mobile operators and companies across the broader connectivity ecosystem and focuses on areas including industry standards, policy development, digital inclusion and technological innovation. It is also the organiser of the Mobile World Congress (MWC) and M360 industry events.