Al Swanson

Vice President and General Manager

Optical Connectivity and Apparatus
 

Al Swanson is vice president and general manager for AFL’s optical connectivity and apparatus business, which manufactures passive optical, copper and RF interconnect products. Al was appointed to the position in 2006.

Al is responsible for overall strategic direction and business results for the core Fujikura business of connectivity products. Under his leadership, the overall financial and operational health of the business has improved. Top-line growth has more than doubled in the last five years and return on invested capital is above expectations. This impressive growth has occurred in a very competitive sector, with significantly increased global competition. Of particular note are the many operational improvements that have been implemented and the addition of a new manufacturing facility in Swindon, UK, during Al’s tenure. Engineering advancements and an aggressive go-to-market strategy have resulted in a more robust and diverse product line serving customers in over 100 countries around the world.

Since joining AFL in 1994, Al has worked across the organization in a variety of sales, marketing, product management, engineering management and business development roles. Al’s track record of growing product lines and building key relationships both within and outside the enterprise led to a series of promotions ultimately culminating in Al being selected to lead the optical connectivity and apparatus business.

Prior to joining AFL, Al delivered exceptional results in commercial sales positions at Siecor (now Corning Cable Systems), Cable & Wireless and Honeywell. At Siecor, Al received several awards, including Individual Outstanding Contribution Award, VIP Membership and President’s Club. He received similar recognition at both Honeywell and Cable & Wireless.

Al earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Management) from the University of Arkansas. He is actively involved in charity work focused on education and youth athletics. He is also an alumnus of Southwestern Publishing Company.