SBC director retires, AT&T/SBC merger closes

Bly, 54, today announced his retirement, effective Dec. 1. His announcement coincides with the approval of a merger between SBC Communications and AT&T.

On Friday, the merger received final regulatory approval from California – the last hurdle in the 10-month changeover. The Federal Communications Commission and the U.S. Department of Justice approved the merger last month.

In 1978, Bly began his career with AT&T, and in 1984 he moved to Southwestern Bell when the company divided into seven smaller “Baby Bell” companies. Southwestern Bell later became SBC and now will again be known as AT&T.

“I’m very happy because I started my career with (AT&T) and I’m ending my career with AT&T, so it’s kind of full circle,” Bly said.

Bly will work with his wife, Linda, who owns From Here to Wellness, a company that partners with a nutraceutical research and development company. The skills he learned at SBC will transfer to his new role.

“What I’ve learned through the years is that everything is built on relationships and taking care of people,” he said. “I think that will put me in good stead regardless of if I was waiting tables or pumping gas or working with my wife.”

Bly will be replaced by Kevin Vossen, who has been an employee of SBC for 24 years. He will serve as executive director for southwest Missouri.

“It’s really an exciting day – but just because we have a new name, we’re still committed to the people we serve,” Vossen said.

For more about Pat Bly’s retirement, Kevin Vossen’s move to Springfield and the SBC and AT&T merger, see SBJ’s Nov. 28 issue.

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