Former U.S. Commerce Secretary Will Lead SBCFormer U.S. Commerce Secretary Will Lead SBC

SBC Communications Inc. may be better positioned now to make inroads on government-related issues, considering a former U.S. commerce secretary will soon be at the helm.

William Daley will take over as company president beginning Dec. 1, entering a new chapter in a storied career that's also included heading up Al Gore's presidential campaign and serving as vice chairman of equity investment firm Evercore Capital Partners.

As SBC president, Daley will be responsible for strategic planning, regulatory issues, "governmental initiatives," and international affairs, according to a company press release.

The company's "commitment to maintain outstanding relations within the policymaking arena" attracted Daley to the position, according to the statement. He also cited the company's treatment of customer relations: "SBC's leadership position in delivering broadband and its strong commitment to its customers and communities was very important to me."