Ericsson appointed Erik Ekudden as Group CTO and Head of Technology & Architecture, effective July 1, 2017. Ekudden will lead the company's technology strategy with a focus on driving the evolution of the network as the platform to secure the success of Ericsson's service provider customers. As Group CTO and Head of Technology & Architecture, based in Stockholm, Sweden, Ekudden will be responsible for building on Ericsson's strength in technology to support new and existing customers, focusing on innovation to transform the networks for the future. For the past seven years, Ekudden has been responsible for Ericsson's technology strategies and industry activities. He has been based in Silicon Valley, immersing himself in the industry, deepening Ericsson's engagement with strategic customers and partners, and driving a forward-looking research agenda. Ekudden joined Ericsson in 1993, holding various positions within research and development.