EchoStar Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

EchoStar has 8 executives leading key functions including technology, information systems, operations, legal affairs, and human resources.

Driven by a legacy of innovation, EchoStar is dedicated to advancing global connectivity through integrated satellite and wireless technologies, shaping the future of telecommunications.

Leadership Roles at EchoStar

  • Chief Operating Officer - Paul Gaske
  • President, Technology & Chief Operating Officer - John Swieringa
  • Chief Technology Officer - Derek de Bastos
  • Chief Information Officer - Germar Schaefer
  • Chief of Staff To the CTIO - Zach Sechler
  • Chief Technology Officer, EchoStar Satellite Services - Derek Bastos
  • Chief Legal Officer - Dean Manson
  • Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer - Katherine Flynn
  • Paul Gaske - Chief Operating Officer

    Paul Gaske, the Chief Operating Officer at EchoStar, manages the day-to-day operational execution of the company's diverse business segments. Gaske oversees the integration and optimization of processes across satellite communications, pay-TV, and wireless services, ensuring efficient delivery of services to consumers, enterprises, and government agencies. This critical role involves driving operational excellence and implementing strategies that enhance service quality and customer satisfaction. By focusing on operational efficiency, Paul Gaske directly contributes to the company's ability to expand its market reach and maintain its competitive position. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities extend to managing the complex logistical and technical requirements of EchoStar's global infrastructure, including its satellite fleet and 5G network development, ensuring seamless service delivery worldwide.

    John Swieringa - President, Technology & Chief Operating Officer

    John Swieringa, the President, Technology & Chief Operating Officer at EchoStar, spearheads the strategic direction and operational execution of the company's technology initiatives and core business functions. Swieringa leads the integration of advanced satellite and wireless technologies, driving innovation across EchoStar's extensive service offerings, including broadband, pay-TV, and mobile services. This dual role involves overseeing the development of next-generation connectivity solutions and ensuring the efficient operation of the company's global infrastructure. By aligning technological advancements with operational efficiency, John Swieringa directly impacts EchoStar's ability to serve a broad customer base across the Americas, Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. The President, Technology & Chief Operating Officer's leadership ensures that EchoStar remains at the forefront of the telecommunications industry, delivering reliable and cutting-edge connectivity solutions.

    Derek de Bastos - Chief Technology Officer

    Derek de Bastos, the Chief Technology Officer at EchoStar, architects the company's technological vision and strategy. Overseeing the development and implementation of cutting-edge solutions, de Bastos drives innovation across EchoStar's diverse portfolio, which spans satellite communications, pay-TV, and wireless services. This leadership role involves guiding research and development efforts to enhance existing platforms and pioneer new technologies that expand connectivity. By ensuring technological advancements align with market demands and the company's strategic objectives, Derek de Bastos directly influences EchoStar's competitive edge. The Chief Technology Officer's focus extends to managing the company's extensive satellite infrastructure and its evolving nationwide 5G wireless network, ensuring robust and scalable operations across the Americas, Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. This ensures EchoStar maintains its position as a global telecommunications powerhouse.
    Derek de Bastos

    Germar Schaefer - Chief Information Officer

    Germar Schaefer, the Chief Information Officer at EchoStar, directs the company's information technology infrastructure and digital transformation initiatives. Schaefer is responsible for ensuring the security, efficiency, and scalability of EchoStar's IT systems, which are critical for supporting its global operations in satellite communications, pay-TV, and wireless services. This leadership position involves overseeing the integration of advanced technologies to streamline business processes and enhance data management across all divisions, including HughesNet, DISH, and Sling TV. By optimizing the IT landscape, Germar Schaefer enables seamless communication and data flow, supporting the company's mission to provide comprehensive connectivity solutions. The Chief Information Officer's strategic oversight ensures that EchoStar's technological backbone is robust enough to support its expanding service offerings and its presence across multiple continents, driving operational excellence.

    Zach Sechler - Chief of Staff To the CTIO

    Zach Sechler, the Chief of Staff To the CTIO at EchoStar, provides strategic support and operational coordination for the Chief Technology and Innovation Officer. Sechler facilitates the execution of key technology initiatives and ensures alignment across various departments involved in EchoStar's satellite communications, pay-TV, and wireless service development. This role involves managing critical projects, optimizing workflows, and enhancing communication between technology teams and executive leadership. By streamlining operations and driving project completion, Zach Sechler directly supports the advancement of EchoStar's technological roadmap. The Chief of Staff To the CTIO's focus on operational efficiency and strategic alignment is crucial for the successful deployment of new services and the continued enhancement of the company's global connectivity infrastructure.

    Derek Bastos - Chief Technology Officer, EchoStar Satellite Services

    Derek Bastos, the Chief Technology Officer, EchoStar Satellite Services at EchoStar, directs the technological strategy and innovation for the company's satellite services division. Bastos oversees the development and maintenance of EchoStar's advanced satellite infrastructure, including geostationary high-throughput satellites, ensuring optimal performance and reliability for global connectivity solutions. This leadership position involves driving advancements in satellite technology to support broadband, enterprise communications, and government connectivity offerings. By focusing on technological superiority, Derek Bastos directly enhances the capabilities and reach of EchoStar's satellite network. The Chief Technology Officer, EchoStar Satellite Services' expertise is vital for maintaining EchoStar's position as a leader in satellite communications, supporting operations across multiple continents and serving a diverse clientele.
    Dean Manson, the Chief Legal Officer at EchoStar, oversees all legal affairs and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements across the company's global operations. Manson provides strategic legal counsel on matters related to telecommunications law, corporate governance, intellectual property, and mergers and acquisitions, including the recent integration with DISH Network. This critical role involves managing legal risks and safeguarding the company's interests as it expands its satellite, pay-TV, and wireless service offerings. By ensuring robust legal frameworks, Dean Manson directly supports EchoStar's business objectives and its commitment to ethical operations. The Chief Legal Officer's guidance is essential for navigating the complex legal landscape of the telecommunications industry and maintaining EchoStar's reputation worldwide.

    Katherine Flynn - Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer

    Katherine Flynn, the Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer at EchoStar, leads the human resources strategy and talent management initiatives for the organization. Flynn is responsible for fostering a positive and productive work environment, overseeing recruitment, employee development, compensation, and benefits across EchoStar's global workforce. This leadership role involves aligning people strategies with the company's business objectives, ensuring that EchoStar attracts and retains top talent to drive innovation in satellite communications, pay-TV, and wireless services. By focusing on employee engagement and organizational development, Katherine Flynn directly contributes to EchoStar's sustained growth and success. The Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer's expertise is crucial for building a strong corporate culture that supports the company's mission of expanding connectivity worldwide.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding EchoStar Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads EchoStar?
    EchoStar is led by Paul Gaske (Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as John Swieringa (President, Technology & Chief Operating Officer) and Derek de Bastos (Chief Technology Officer).
    Who is part of EchoStar’s executive team?
    The executive team of EchoStar includes leaders such as Paul Gaske (Chief Operating Officer), John Swieringa (President, Technology & Chief Operating Officer), Derek de Bastos (Chief Technology Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does EchoStar have?
    EchoStar has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in EchoStar’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of EchoStar includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer, President, Technology & Chief Operating Officer, Chief Technology Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief of Staff To the CTIO.