US Wireless industry trade association the CTIA has named former Federal Communications Commission (FCC) chair Ajit Pai as its new president and CEO

Pai will begin his role on April 1, 2025, the group said.

Pai replaces Meredith Attwell Baker in the role. She announced her departure in December.

The CTIA is a trade association that represents the US wireless communications industry on a number of topics, such as regulation and spectrum.

Pai joins from global private investment firm Searchlight Capital Partners, and described being asked to take the role as an "honor."

"The wireless industry is a key driver of technology innovation and investment in the US. And it helps advance America's global competitiveness, national security, and economic security," said Pai.

"Together, we will work to ensure that our nation's spectrum and infrastructure policies promote US global wireless leadership and keep consumers on the leading edge of innovation. I am thrilled to get to represent the companies across our country that are creating jobs, growing the economy, and benefiting hundreds of millions of consumers every day."

Pai was previously FCC chair during President Donald Trump's first term in the White House. Taking up the role in 2017, he oversaw the rollout of 5G by US carriers. He had joined the FCC as a commissioner five years earlier.

When Baker announced her planned departure, the CTIA noted that during her tenure, the organization had grown in size by more than 80 percent.

As CEO, Baker launched the annual 5G Summit and established the MWC Las Vegas trade show, co-produced with GSMA.