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Feb 27, 2025 Portfolio Company News

Grain Management-Backed NWS Announces Two Senior Hires to Accelerate Growth and Innovation

Greensboro, NC. (February 25, 2025)

Network Wireless Solutions (NWS), an industry-leading infrastructure solution provider for wireless and wireline communications, proudly announces the addition of Dr. Louis Hutchinson as President and Chief Revenue Officer, and John Oppold as Chief Financial Officer. NWS is a portfolio company of Grain Management, LLC (“Grain”), a leading Washington, D.C.-based investment firm focused on the global communications sector.

Dr. Louis Hutchinson joins NWS with a remarkable track record of driving hyper-growth across Fortune 500 companies in the technology, energy, and satellite communications sectors. As President and Chief Revenue Officer, Dr. Hutchinson will spearhead all Sales, Marketing, and Corporate Communications strategies, in addition to overseeing IT Management, Security, and Systems Integration.

With over 30 years of leadership experience, Dr. Hutchinson has held pivotal roles, including Chief Operating Officer at VEIC, Chief Revenue Officer at WGL Holdings (NYSE: WGL), Officer & Sr. VP of Public Sector and Energy Efficiency at Exelon (NASDAQ: EXC), and VP of Sales at Netscape Communications Corporation (NASDAQ: NSCP). He is also the visionary founder and CEO of Crunchy Technologies, whose intellectual property was acquired by IBM.

As stated by Lou Hutchinson, “I am incredibly excited about NWS’s proven leadership in distribution of integrated products and solution services for digital infrastructure; and the opportunity to drive impactful growth as a part of the leadership team.”

Dr. Hutchinson’s influence extends beyond the boardroom. Recognized as one of Savoy Magazine’s Top 100 Most Influential Blacks in Corporate America and Black Enterprise Magazine’s 300 Most Powerful Blacks in the Fortune 500, his strategic vision and leadership have been featured in The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post.

As stated by Xavier Williams, Chief Executive Officer at NWS, “We are thrilled to welcome Lou and John to the NWS family. Their leadership and vision, shaped by a history of excellence across technology, energy, finance, and communications, will have an immediate impact. Lou’s innovation-driven growth strategy and John’s financial expertise will strengthen our ability to deliver best-in-class solutions. This is an exciting time for NWS, and I look forward to the transformative contributions they will bring.”

Joining as Chief Financial Officer, John Oppold brings over 20 years of financial leadership experience, having held significant roles at NSI IndustriesHarsco Rail (NYSE: NVRI), and Honeywell (NASDAQ: HON). In his role at NWS, John will be responsible for overseeing Financial Reporting and Analysis, Accounting, Budgeting and Forecasting, Cash Management, Risk Management, and Financial Systems Improvement.

John’s strategic approach to financial leadership has been honed through his extensive background in diverse industries, driving value creation and operational efficiency. His expertise will be crucial in supporting NWS’s continued financial growth and strategic objectives.

As stated by John Oppold, “I’m excited to bring my financial expertise to NWS and contribute to its continued growth. By enhancing financial strategy, optimizing efficiencies, and driving strong fiscal management, I look forward to supporting the company’s long-term success.”

About Network Wireless Solutions (NWS)

As a nimble and reliable distributor, NWS serves telcos, wireless carriers, ISPs, WISPs, data centers, and utilities with innovative solutions tailored to their network needs. We streamline material deployments through value-added kitting, logistics, and 3PL services, ensuring projects stay on-budget and on-time. From FTTx and DAS to Private Wireless Networks, Fixed Wireless Access, and Network Testing Equipment, we deliver reliable, future-ready solutions backed by world-class vendor partnerships. With the flexibility to scale and customize to your business, NWS is your trusted partner for building the networks of tomorrow. For more information, visit nwsnext.com.

About Grain Management

Founded in 2007, Grain Management is a leading, global investment firm. We believe broadband and digital infrastructure are foundational to the tech-enabled transformation occurring across all industries and facets of society. Our global team of seasoned and diverse professionals share a collective passion for the power of connectivity to strengthen communities and unlock human potential for all.

We specialize in digital infrastructure and are a trusted solutions provider to the broadband and communications industry. Our unique combination of sector knowledge, experience as operators, and disciplined analytical approach guide our differentiated investment strategy across fiber networks, data centers, wireless spectrum, cell towers, as well as managed and infrastructure services.

Contacts:

Grain Management Public Relations

[email protected]

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