SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Midco announced that Chief Executive Officer Pat McAdaragh will retire effective March 1, 2027, after a 46-year career with the telecommunications company. Ben Dold, Midco's current President and Chief Operating Officer, will succeed him as President & CEO.

McAdaragh joined Midco in 1981 and has worked in nearly every area of the business during his tenure. Under his leadership, the company grew from more than 300 stand-alone cable systems into a unified, next-generation connectivity provider now serving more than 600 communities across five states.

Midco said the leadership transition reflects long-term succession planning and the strength of its executive team.

During his time as CEO, McAdaragh oversaw the launch of Fiber Forward, a $500 million investment begun in 2021 that is nearing completion, as well as the evolution of MidcoTV, the launch of Midco Mobile and the growth of Midco Sports. He also introduced "Bestness," a company standard emphasizing excellence, care and continuous improvement, and worked to strengthen the Midco Foundation's community support efforts.

"I joined Midco in 1981 and quickly fell in love – with the work itself, with the leadership who shaped me, with the teammates who walked alongside me and with the dynamic industries we were part of," McAdaragh said earlier this year. "Why have I stayed? Because that love has never left. It's still here, even now."

McAdaragh will continue serving as CEO through Feb. 28, 2027, working alongside Dold and the company's leadership team to ensure a smooth transition. After stepping down as CEO, McAdaragh will remain Chair and President of Midcontinent Media, Inc., Midco's parent company, which he co-owns with Steve Grosser, MMI's Vice Chair and Executive Vice President.

Dold has worked closely with McAdaragh for many years in his role as president and chief operating officer. "Pat's leadership has shaped Midco's culture, strategy and commitment to customers and communities," Dold said. "I am grateful for his mentorship and trust. It is an honor to build on the strong foundation he created and to lead our talented team as we continue investing, innovating and growing for the future."

Founded in 1931, Midco operates a fiber network spanning 21,000 miles and serves more than 1.2 million homes and businesses in over 600 communities across Kansas, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. The company employs about 1,900 team members.