About Us
Founded by a team of data-center, cloud infrastructure, and communications specialists, Platocom is a U.S.-based digital infrastructure company that plans, deploys, operates, and administers the systems that powers modern governments, enterprises, and critical services.
With offices in New York and Virginia, Platocom delivers end-to-end digital infrastructure solutions using public-private partnership (PPP) models. Our work spans broadband deployment, data-center migration and operations, audits and compliance, colocation, cloud hosting, and data-warehouse strategy, supporting secure, production-grade, AI-ready environments.
Platocom does not just advise. We design, deploy, administer, and operate infrastructure across its full lifecycle, including A–Z cloud operations: identity and access management, monitoring, security, cost control, and ongoing optimization.
Where required, Platocom also builds the operational workforce needed to sustain these systems, training cloud operators, infrastructure managers, and public-sector users to ensure long-term, local capability and accountable delivery.
Platocom Stakeholder-Driven Delivery Through Public-Private Partnerships
Platocom is a stakeholder-driven company operating through a dynamic Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, collaborating with a diverse portfolio of stakeholders. This includes telecommunications providers, utility companies, municipalities, counties, leading hardware vendors, and strategic advisors.
Together, we identify and deliver effective, future-ready, and cost-efficient network solutions aimed at achieving universal connectivity. While our primary focus is rural America, we are leveraging our expertise globally.
Platocom’s expertise lies in enhancing digital infrastructure to establish secure and future-proof networks, deploying new fiber-optic ecosystems in rural regions including microwave broadband solutions, setting up edge data centers, modernizing deteriorated network infrastructure, and improving digital security.
Meet the Team
With deep expertise in digital infrastructure, cloud, and data management, Platocom’s team combines senior engineering leadership with advanced academic training in mathematics, computer science, and applied sciences, including PhD-level expertise. The team brings hands-on experience deploying and operating complex digital infrastructure across public-sector and enterprise environments, including work supporting U.S. government–led digital infrastructure initiatives in Africa in partnership with national institutions.
Drawing on a rare mix of technical execution, policy literacy, and real-world delivery experience, Platocom’s professionals help clients navigate complex technology landscapes, operate secure production systems, and build resilient, intelligent infrastructure for the AI and cloud era.
CEO, Co-founder
Linda Saetre
A multilingual, senior-level tech and media executive and consultant with extensive experience in managing projects of all sizes in the US and abroad. An innovative, self-motivated, and solution-oriented leader who identifies and aligns sales and programming goals with creative, revenue-generating solutions.
CTO, Co-founder
Richard Alexander
Richard is an accomplished information technology professional skilled in Data Center, Management, Project Implementation, Business Process Improvement, and Troubleshooting. He is a master at solving network issues and skilled at overseeing IT infrastructure resources to achieve organizational goals.
The Team
Platocom's team comprises individuals with a broad range of expertise and backgrounds that are essential to fulfilling our mission as a leading technology company in the AI era. From driving innovation in digital infrastructure to providing exceptional client support and fostering an inclusive workplace environment, each member plays a pivotal role in our continued success.
Robert Murphy
Telecommunications & Digital Infrastructure Specialist
With a successful 20-year track record of Managing and Deployment of Large large-scale data Center, Central Office, Optical Transport, GPON, and Wireless Networks, Robert oversees all aspects of network operations, service delivery, and operational strategy for a telecommunications or technology-driven organization.
He drives cloud-native transformation, AI-driven operational excellence, and deploys next-generation network infrastructure, including 5G/6G and edge computing. In this role, he leverages his strengths in team leadership, project management, customer experience, and operational turnaround.
Change Management, Organizational Advisor and Africa Liaison
Alem Ashenafi brings extensive experience in government relations and international development across Africa and the United Nations system. She served seven years with the UN Economic Commission for Africa, where she functioned as Account Manager and focal liaison across 27 UN agencies, developing deep expertise in multilateral coordination and African development initiatives.
At Platocom, Alem coordinates strategic relationships with U.S. partners and African governments, leveraging her established network of ministers and civil servants throughout the continent.
Alem’s portfolio spans government relations and operational management, blending diplomatic engagement with strong financial and administrative expertise. She focuses on strengthening partnerships among international organizations, African governments, and private sector stakeholders to advance sustainable development across the continent.
Languages:
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English (Fluent)
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Amharic (Fluent)
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French (Conversational)
Alem Ashenafi
Eileen Kim
Investor Relations, Blockchain Specialist
Eileen Kim, an investor, adviser, and consultant specializing in blockchain startups, brings extensive expertise in financing, developing, and managing early-stage and growth companies.
At BlackRock's Official Institutions Group, she spearheaded global strategic initiatives, serving sovereign wealth funds and central banks. With FINRA licenses in the US and French investment qualifications, she graduated with honors from Columbia University and speaks English, Korean, French, and Italian.
Yonatan Elias Lewi
Data Science & Governance Analyst
Yonatan Elias Lewi is a dynamic electrical engineer and emerging data scientist with a passion for leveraging technology to drive societal progress and environmental efficiency. Yonatan brings a unique blend of hardware, software, and analytical expertise to the Platocom team.
His academic journey spans Germany and Ethiopia, nurturing a global perspective and a deep appreciation for cross-cultural collaboration. Yonatan’s technical toolkit is extensive: he is an expert Python programmer, skilled in GIS analysis, control systems design, and microcontroller-based IoT solutions. He is also proficient in a wide range of programming languages and frameworks, including JavaScript (React, Next.js), Java, C/C++, R, and more.
Kenneth Roko
Team Lead and Chief Engineer
Extensive telecommunications and information technology (IT) entrepreneur experience. Over 30 years of experience in domestic and international corporate and global technical and engineering program management and business development experience (in 105 countries).
On site or remote business process engineering services including program management, business operation continual improvement and company start-up logistics and planning.
Ayo Haynes
Strategic Brand & Partnerships Lead
Ayo Haynes is a business strategist, leadership mentor, and transformational advisor dedicated to helping individuals and organizations thrive through intentional design and authentic connection and holds an MBA.
At Platacom, Ayo serves as Strategic Partnerships Lead. She is responsible for engaging senior decision-makers across U.S. and international public institutions, and for supporting the firm’s partnership strategy, external relations, and communications. Ayo brings experience in brand partnerships, media strategy, and technology ecosystems to strengthen Platacom’s positioning and support the firm’s mission to advance digital infrastructure and data-driven development.
Michael Byers-Norton
Data Center & Network Infrastructure Expert
As a versatile and accomplished professional in the Data Center and Network Infrastructure industries, Michael brings a unique blend of high-level experience, analytical expertise, and strategic thinking to every project.
His diverse background spans various roles, including Sr. Director of New Program Development, Sr. Solutions Architect, Sales Engineer, Manager of Sales Engineering, and Senior Product Manager.
SdaaS©
About Platocom
Platocom offers a comprehensive solution through our unique approach known as Service Delivery as a Service (SdaaS©). We kick off the process by actively listening to and diagnosing your technology challenges. Our team of data center specialists conducts a thorough analysis of your existing network and technology landscape – this step is akin to "diagnosing the problem" or conducting an audit.