EchoStar Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

EchoStar has 8 executives leading key functions including operations, information technology, technology development, satellite services, corporate strategy, human resources, and legal affairs.

Focused on global connectivity, EchoStar delivers advanced communications technology and satellite services to enterprise, government, and consumer markets while maintaining a commitment to reliable network infrastructure and digital entertainment solutions.

Leadership Roles at EchoStar

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

    Paul Gaske, the Chief Operating Officer at EchoStar, directs the daily execution of global communications technology and networking services. Overseeing the operational efficiency of satellite services and broadband internet delivery, Gaske ensures that the company meets the rigorous demands of telecommunications operators and government clients. This leadership role involves streamlining complex supply chains and optimizing service delivery models across diverse environments. By aligning internal resources with market requirements, Paul Gaske drives the expansion of managed network solutions. Gaske maintains a focus on operational excellence, ensuring that the infrastructure supporting residential and enterprise users remains robust. Through the management of large-scale technical deployments, the Chief Operating Officer secures the company's position as a leader in the connectivity sector. This strategic oversight directly impacts the ability of the organization to scale operations while maintaining high standards of service reliability for all global customers.

    John Swieringa - President, Technology & Chief Operating Officer

    John Swieringa, the President, Technology & Chief Operating Officer at EchoStar, integrates technical strategy with operational execution to drive the company's global communications initiatives. Overseeing the alignment of technology development with day-to-day business operations, Swieringa ensures that the organization delivers high-performance networking services and television entertainment. This leadership role involves managing the intersection of product innovation and service delivery for consumer and enterprise markets. By streamlining cross-functional processes, John Swieringa drives organizational efficiency and supports the company's growth objectives. The President, Technology & Chief Operating Officer collaborates with the executive team to refine the long-term vision for connectivity solutions. Through the oversight of large-scale technical and operational projects, Swieringa ensures that the company remains responsive to the needs of telecommunications operators and public sector organizations. This dual focus on technology and operations allows the organization to maintain a strong market position while delivering reliable, scalable communication capabilities to a global customer base.

    Germar Schaefer - Chief Information Officer

    Germar Schaefer, the Chief Information Officer at EchoStar, architects the digital framework supporting global communications and networking services. Managing the enterprise-wide information systems, Schaefer ensures that data integrity and cybersecurity protocols protect the company's extensive satellite and broadband infrastructure. This role involves integrating advanced communications technologies into the existing corporate ecosystem to enhance service delivery for telecommunications operators and government entities. By modernizing internal IT platforms, Germar Schaefer drives efficiency across all business units. Schaefer collaborates with other executive leaders to align digital transformation initiatives with the broader mission of providing reliable connectivity. The Chief Information Officer oversees the implementation of scalable software solutions that support the diverse needs of residential and business customers. Through the strategic management of information assets, Schaefer ensures that the organization remains agile in a competitive market, ultimately supporting the long-term growth and technological advancement of the entire enterprise.

    Derek de Bastos - Chief Technology Officer

    Derek de Bastos, the Chief Technology Officer at EchoStar, leads the research and development of next-generation communications technology and networking solutions. Focusing on the innovation of satellite services and video distribution platforms, de Bastos drives the technical roadmap for consumer and enterprise products. This leadership role involves overseeing the engineering teams responsible for advanced connectivity solutions that enable global communication. By fostering a culture of technical excellence, Derek de Bastos ensures that the company remains at the forefront of the telecommunications industry. The Chief Technology Officer collaborates with the board and other executives to identify emerging market trends and integrate them into the product portfolio. Through the development of robust network architectures, de Bastos supports the delivery of high-quality digital entertainment and broadband services. This strategic focus on technological advancement ensures that the organization continues to provide reliable, cutting-edge solutions to its diverse customer base across the globe.
    Derek de Bastos

    Derek Bastos - Chief Technology Officer, EchoStar Satellite Services

    Derek Bastos, the Chief Technology Officer, EchoStar Satellite Services at EchoStar, manages the technical infrastructure specifically dedicated to satellite-based communications and broadband delivery. Overseeing the engineering of satellite payloads and ground station connectivity, Bastos ensures the reliability of services for government and enterprise clients. This role involves optimizing the performance of satellite assets to maintain consistent coverage across diverse geographic regions. By directing the technical strategy for the satellite division, Derek Bastos drives the implementation of advanced signal processing and transmission technologies. The Chief Technology Officer, EchoStar Satellite Services collaborates with operational teams to ensure that satellite capacity meets the evolving demands of the telecommunications market. Through the continuous improvement of satellite network capabilities, Bastos supports the company's mission to provide seamless connectivity. This specialized focus on satellite technology ensures that the organization maintains a competitive edge in delivering critical communication services to users in remote and underserved environments.

    Zach Sechler - Chief of Staff To the CTIO

    Zach Sechler, the Chief of Staff To the CTIO at EchoStar, coordinates the strategic initiatives and operational workflows within the technology and information offices. Facilitating communication between the Chief Technology and Information Officer and the broader engineering teams, Sechler ensures that technical projects align with the company's overarching mission. This role involves managing the administrative and strategic priorities that support the development of communications technology and networking services. By optimizing the flow of information and resources, Zach Sechler drives the successful execution of key technical milestones. The Chief of Staff To the CTIO works closely with other executive leaders to monitor progress on critical infrastructure projects and ensure that departmental goals support the company's market impact. Through the management of complex internal processes, Sechler enables the technical leadership to focus on innovation and service delivery. This role is essential for maintaining organizational alignment and ensuring that the company's technological advancements effectively serve its diverse customer base.

    Katherine Flynn - Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer

    Katherine Flynn, the Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer at EchoStar, directs the human capital strategy to support the company's global communications and networking operations. Overseeing talent acquisition, organizational development, and employee engagement, Flynn ensures that the workforce possesses the skills necessary to drive innovation in satellite services and broadband technology. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of excellence that aligns with the company's mission to provide reliable connectivity. By implementing comprehensive human resources programs, Katherine Flynn drives the retention and growth of top-tier talent across the organization. The Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer collaborates with the executive team to ensure that organizational structure supports the company's strategic objectives. Through the management of workplace policies and professional development initiatives, Flynn ensures that the company remains an employer of choice in the telecommunications industry. This focus on people strategy directly impacts the organization's ability to deliver high-quality services to its diverse customer base.
    Jeffrey Blum, the Acting Chief Legal Officer & Secretary at EchoStar, manages the legal and regulatory framework governing the company's global communications and satellite services. Overseeing compliance, corporate governance, and intellectual property protection, Blum ensures that the organization operates within the legal requirements of the telecommunications industry. This role involves providing strategic counsel to the board and executive leadership on matters related to market expansion and regulatory policy. By navigating complex legal landscapes, Jeffrey Blum drives the protection of the company's technological assets and business interests. The Acting Chief Legal Officer & Secretary collaborates with other executives to mitigate risk and ensure that all business activities align with corporate standards. Through the management of legal affairs, Blum supports the company's mission to deliver reliable connectivity and digital entertainment solutions. This focus on legal integrity ensures that the organization maintains its reputation and continues to serve its diverse customer base with confidence and stability.

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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 Germar Schaefer (Chief Information 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), Germar Schaefer (Chief Information 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 Information Officer, Chief Technology Officer, Chief Technology Officer, EchoStar Satellite Services.