LANSING, Mich., Jan. 14, 2013 — The Michigan Cable Telecommunications Association (MCTA) Board of Directors announced today that Matt Groen has been appointed the association’s new executive director.

“Matt Groen is a tremendous asset to the Michigan Cable Telecommunications Association and its member companies,” said Chris Horak of Comcast Michigan, who serves as the cable association’s Board President. “Matt brings extensive legislative experience, and the MCTA Board was impressed by the effectiveness and leadership he demonstrated during his tenure as MCTA’s government affairs director. The MCTA Board feels privileged to have Matt lead the association through what promises to be a period of continued technological advancements for cable consumers throughout the state.”

Groen, of Lansing, succeeds Colleen McNamara, who officially retired last month. In 2009, Groen was appointed MCTA’s government affairs director. During the past few months, Groen served as interim executive director while maintaining his role directing government affairs.

“I am thrilled to be asked to lead the Michigan Cable Telecommunications Association during a time of such rapid expansion and innovation throughout the cable industry,” Groen said. “Cable in Michigan has a great story to tell – beginning with the early years of straightforward video television to where we are today, able to offer consumers broadband Internet, phone service, on-demand programming on multiple platforms including tablets and smart phones, and more. It’s an exciting time for cable consumers — and that makes it an exciting time for those of us in the cable industry.”

MCTA member companies represent approximately 85 percent of Michigan’s cable subscribers. The MCTA, founded in 1981, provides information to state legislators on the issues important to the cable industry and serves as a clearinghouse of information for its members. The association also produces and distributes Michigan specific public affairs programming with the cooperation and resources of all member cable systems. For more information, go to MichCable.org.