"I am very excited about the technology challenges and opportunities that lie ahead," said Roberts. "CableLabs is at the strategic center of change. This is the place where we work through the tough issues and develop the industry standards that are essential to our ability to bring the next generation of broadband services to our customers. CableLabs is an incredibly valuable resource for our industry."

"Brian is exceptionally well-suited to his new role, and he has been a major player for years in shaping CableLabs’ strategic direction," commented Malone, who will continue to serve as a member of the CableLabs Board and Executive Committee. "He was the driving force behind CableLabs’ pivotal meetings with the computer industry in 1997 which resulted in CableLabs’ OpenCable™ advanced digital set-top initiative. Brian and his team also led the launch of PacketCable™, CableLabs’ initiative to develop end-to-end specifications for multimedia packet-based services, including IP telephony."

Joseph J. Collins, chairman and chief executive officer of Time Warner Cable and vice-chair of the CableLabs Board of Directors, added: "Comcast has been in the forefront of our industry in evaluating advanced services and establishing a solid business foundation for their deployment, including high-speed data and digital video. This technology-, business- and service-centric focus will serve Brian well as Chairman of CableLabs."

"Brian has established himself as a proven leader in our industry," observed Leo J. Hindery, president and CEO of AT&T Broadband & Internet and a member of the CableLabs Board and Executive Committee. "He has the ability to identify and surround himself with top technical talent and expertise, which are vital components for our industry overall as we begin to explore wider, more advanced services."

"I have known Brian for over 15 years," said Bob Miron, president of Advance/Newhouse Communications and a member of the CableLabs Executive Committee. "I think he brings special talents and experience to this position. He has the respect of his peers and has literally come up through the ranks of the cable business, understanding our industry as few others do. I have no doubt that he will take CableLabs to the next level," Miron added.

At its meeting held April 14 in New York, the CableLabs Board of Directors named Roberts to serve as Chairman; Collins as Vice-Chairman; Charles M. Lillis, president, CEO and chairman of MediaOne Group, Inc., as Secretary; and Ted Rogers, president and CEO of Rogers Communications Inc., as Treasurer.