The Associated Press --

Telephone and Internet service provider Alaska Communications Systems Group Inc. said Monday that it has named local venture capitalist John Niles Wanamaker to its board of directors and its nominating and corporate governance committee.

Wanamaker runs Alaska Venture Partners, an angel investment firm, and serves as chairman of Venture Ad Astra, a venture capital company he co-founded that focuses on emerging technologies. He is also chairman of Zulutime, whose technology provides indoor navigation and location-based services. He has also founded or led companies in the wireless, aerospace and electronic security industries.

“John’s entrepreneurism, experience with emerging technologies, success in finding profitable market positions, and finally his pervasive connection to the Alaska and Pacific Northwest business markets will serve ACS shareholders well,” said Liane Pelletier, Alaska Communications’ chief executive and chairwoman.

Pelletier announced in December that she would step down as president and CEO, to be replaced on Feb. 1 by current chief operating officer Anand Vadapalli. Pelletier will remain chair of the board.

Shares of Alaska Communications fell 3 cents to $10 in trading Monday on the Nasdaq exchange.