Jacob Garrett
AT&T
Jacob Garrett is a dynamic and forward-thinking leader known for his innovative approach to driving operational excellence and fostering meaningful relationships. With a rich career spanning over two decades at AT&T, Jacob has consistently demonstrated his ability to ideate and implement transformative tools and processes that have significantly enhanced the company’s operations.
Jacob’s journey at AT&T began as a Call Center Service Representative in 1999, where his dedication to customer service and sales excellence quickly earned him recognition and awards. His passion for training and development soon saw him take on the role of training coordinator and manager of multiple call centers, where he was responsible for equipping new service representatives with the skills needed to succeed, gaining him recognition from that current CEO Ed Whitacre.
His managerial prowess became evident during his tenure as Operations Manager for Jonesboro/Conway. Here, Jacob successfully managed telecommunications installation and repair while ensuring safety, productivity, and quality standards were consistently met. His exceptional leadership skills earned him the prestigious Lineman Award for best-in-class results.
His trajectory continued upward, and his innovative mindset shone through as Principal and Senior Manager of Technical Process and Quality. He ideated and led the development of numerous corporate tools, including being over the quality plan for AT&T. He streamlined processes and generated over $500M in annualized savings. His efforts have positively impacted over 120,000 field forces and over 250,000 employees across AT&T’s global footprint.
In his current role as Director of External Affairs, Jacob leverages his extensive experience to build and maintain relationships with local elected officials and promote philanthropy for non-profits in Arkansas. His adeptness at legislative tracking, regulatory filings, and community engagement ensures AT&T’s continued reputation as a community leader.
Jacob’s academic achievements include a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations from Arkansas Tech University and multiple certifications from AT&T University, including IT Agile Bronze Certification and Lean & Six Sigma Green Belt. His participation in the Harvard Leadership Transformation Program further evidences his personal and professional growth commitment.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jacob is deeply involved in community service. He chaired the Arkansas Tech University Advisory Board and served on AT&T Pioneers and the ARKUPS Board of Directors. His dedication to mentoring and volunteerism has earned him multiple President’s Volunteer Service Awards and City of Vilonia Citizen of the Year.
Jacob is most passionate about his family, fishing, and pyrotechnics. Jacob and his wife, Jaime, reside in Faulkner County near Vilonia. They have two daughters, one son, one daughter-in-law, and one son-in-law.
Jacob Garrett’s career is a testament to his unwavering dedication to excellence, innovation, and community engagement. His leadership and vision continue to drive AT&T forward, making him a respected and influential figure within the organization and the people he serves.