Co-founder and Chairman
Cyren Call Communications

Mr. O’Brien was the co-founder of Nextel Communications, Inc., in 1987 and served as its Chairman from 1987 to 1995 and vice-chairman until its merger with Sprint Corporation in 2005. A pioneer who has shaped the wireless industry and changed the way Americans communicate, Mr. O’Brien was honored by RCR Wireless News and inducted into the Wireless Hall of Fame. Along with Nextel co-founder Brian McAuley, Mr. O’Brien helped transform the SMR industry into a major wireless player.

Mr. O’Brien began his career as a lawyer with the Mobile Services Division of the FCC in 1970 where he assisted in establishing the rules and procedures for all land mobile services. Later, Mr. O’Brien practiced communications law and from 1986 to 1990 was the Partner-in-Charge of the telecommunications practice at Jones, Day, Reavis & Pogue.

Known for his innovation and willingness to take risks, Mr. O’Brien was recognized in 1987 as New Jersey Entrepreneur of the Year and in 1993 he was voted the RCR Person of the Year. Recently, he was inducted into the Washington Business Hall of Fame. Mr. O’Brien’s interests extend to his support of community. He currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of The Field School in Washington , DC and as a member of the Law Board of Northwestern University School of Law. Mr. O’Brien is married to Belle Brooks O’Brien and has two sons, Brooks and Aidan. He received an AB in Classical Studies from Georgetown University and a law degree from Northwestern University.