Qwest names Bloomfield to lead federal effort

Qwest Communications International Inc. has named Shirley Bloomfield senior vice president for federal relations, effective Aug. 20. She replaces Gary Lytle, who is retiring after leading Qwest's federal operations since 2002.

Bloomfield will be responsible for presenting Qwest's public policy positions before the federal government, including the legislative and executive branches, as well as independent agencies such as the Federal Communications Commission.

For the time being, she will report to Qwest Chairman and Chief Executive Richard Notebaert, who in June informed the board of his decision to resign once a successor is selected. The company has not set a timetable for finding a replacement, according to the announcement.

Bloomfield has more than 20 years of industry experience and most recently served as vice president of government affairs at the National Telecommunications Cooperative Association in Washington, representing small and rural telecommunications companies throughout the United States.

She began her career as a congressional aide for Rep. David Obey (D-Wisc.), and later served in a number of staff roles, including the House Budget Committee.

Qwest of Denver ranks No. 54 on Washington Technology's 2007 Top 100 list of the largest federal government prime contractors.