CMC Networks has appointed Mahesh Jaishankar, a veteran of the telecommunications and technology sectors with experience at Google and du, as its new Managing Director. The appointment, announced on Wednesday, positions Jaishankar to steer the company’s strategic shift towards AI-integrated network services across its African and Middle Eastern markets.
Jaishankar takes over the leadership role from Marisa Trisolino, who served as CEO until her departure from the company in April 2025. The change in leadership comes just over a year after CMC Networks was acquired by the Saudi Arabian data center and connectivity provider, center3, in a deal completed in June 2024.
A Renewed Focus on AI and Growth
In his new role, Jaishankar is tasked with driving growth and overseeing the implementation of the company’s strategy centered on “AI-powered connectivity.” Since its acquisition by center3, CMC Networks has reportedly accelerated its adoption of Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations (AIOps) to manage and optimize its extensive network.
Fahad Alhajeri, CEO of parent company center3 and Chairman of CMC Networks, commented on the appointment, citing Jaishankar’s background as crucial for the company’s next phase. “Mahesh brings over 25 years of experience in building and scaling advanced digital infrastructure businesses,” Alhajeri stated. “His deep expertise with hyperscalers, carriers, and enterprises… makes him ideally suited to lead CMC Networks into its next phase of growth.”
Jaishankar’s Industry Background
Jaishankar’s career includes significant roles that align with CMC’s operational focus. Most recently, he held an advisory position at Arthur D Little and served as the Head of Strategic Negotiations for Global Network Alliances at Google.
Prior to his time at Google, he was a key figure in the development of datamena, a major digital hub in the Middle East, during his tenure at the Emirati telecommunications firm du. His work there involved establishing the ecosystem that attracted hyperscale cloud providers, content platforms, and international carriers to the region.
“CMC has an incredible heritage, and proven track record of delivering industry-leading customer experience across the most complex markets in the world,” Jaishankar said in a statement. He added that his goal is to “accelerate growth, unlock new opportunities, and deliver the intelligent, scalable connectivity solutions that Africa and the Middle East need to thrive in the digital era.”
Jaishankar holds a degree in engineering and an MBA. His appointment signals a continued effort by CMC Networks and its parent, center3, to expand their service offerings by integrating advanced technologies with their established regional infrastructure, which spans 62 markets in Africa and the Middle East.
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