BAI Communications names Mat Jones as Chief Executive

BAI Communications has appointed Mat Jones as Chief Executive Officer, effective at the start of next year.

Jones will succeed Peter Lambourne, who will remain in post until the handover and then support the transition. The appointment followed a global search led by the board.

The leadership change comes as BAI expands across several parts of Australia's communications infrastructure market, including public safety networks, rail communications, broadcasting and mobile-related infrastructure. Recent work includes Sydney Metro West, management of the New South Wales Public Safety Network and long-term broadcaster contracts.

Jones joins with experience in digital infrastructure and telecommunications towers. He previously advised on the acquisition of about 8,000 towers from Telstra to form Amplitel and later served as Chief Operating Officer of the business.

At Amplitel, Jones helped build the tower company's position in the mobile and enterprise markets. The board cited that background in selecting him to lead BAI's next phase under existing shareholder backing from CPP Investments and AIMCo.

Board choice

Bart Vogel, Chair of the Board, outlined the board's view of the appointment.

"Mat brings the vision and proven operational capability required to execute our growth strategy and capitalise on significant opportunities across our core business and into emerging infrastructure sectors. His experience will be invaluable as we continue to expand," said Vogel.

BAI operates broadcast infrastructure that reaches most of the Australian population and works with government, transport and private-sector clients. In recent months, it has also integrated Titan ICT, an acquisition that broadened its presence in mining, resources and energy and was later rebranded under the BAI name.

The business describes itself as a provider of communications infrastructure in areas where continuous service is critical, including emergency communications and transport systems. That portfolio has placed it in projects tied to state infrastructure and essential services, while maintaining links with broadcasters and mobile operators.

Transition plan

Lambourne will remain as Chief Executive Officer through the end of the year to oversee continuity. The executive leadership team will stay in place during that period, and the board and shareholder structure will remain unchanged.

Jones said the move comes at a key point for the company.

"I am excited to join BAI at a pivotal time. BAI is a dynamic digital infrastructure business that has earned the trust to deliver the country's most essential communications infrastructure, from the radio communications systems powering Sydney Metro West to long-standing work with Australia's broadcasters, the NSW Telco Authority, and the mobile operators. I look forward to working with the Board, executive team, and most importantly, BAI employees, to realise the significant opportunities ahead," said Jones.

Lambourne welcomed the incoming Chief Executive Officer and said he would assist with the handover.

"We are delighted to welcome Mat to BAI. The Board's comprehensive search process identified a leader whose expertise and strategic insight are well-suited to BAI's next phase of development. Mat brings a valuable external perspective alongside proven success in delivering growth in complex infrastructure environments. I look forward to working with him over the coming months to share my knowledge of our customer relationships and markets, ensuring a seamless transition and sustained momentum," said Lambourne.

The appointment also drew comment from BAI's majority shareholder. CPP Investments backed the process and thanked the outgoing Chief Executive Officer for his tenure.

"On behalf of CPP Investments, I want to sincerely thank Peter Lambourne for his outstanding leadership, dedication and many contributions to BAI over the years. Peter has played a pivotal role in building BAI into a leading communications infrastructure platform, strengthening its foundations and positioning the business for long-term success. We are deeply grateful for his commitment to the company and for his support in ensuring a smooth transition. At the same time, we are delighted to welcome Mat Jones as BAI's incoming CEO. Mat brings extensive industry experience, operational excellence and a strong growth mindset, and we look forward to working closely with him as BAI embarks on its next chapter. We are excited about the opportunities ahead and remain fully committed to continue to support the company's growth and success," said Lee.