American Express Company (NYSE:AXP) today announced that Ralph de la Vega has been elected to its board of directors.

Since February 2016, Mr. de la Vega is vice chairman of AT&T Inc. and CEO of Business Solutions and International. He leads AT&T’s integrated Business Solutions group (both mobile and IP services), which serves more than 3.5 million business customers in 200 countries and territories, and nearly all the Fortune 1000 firms globally. He also has responsibility for AT&T’s wireless business operations in Mexico and DIRECTV Latin America.

Previously, Mr. de la Vega was president and CEO, AT&T Mobile and Business Solutions, from August 2014 to February 2016; president and CEO of AT&T Mobility, from 2007 to 2014; and prior to that, the COO of Cingular Wireless and president of BellSouth Latin America.

“Ralph has extensive board, international management and leadership experience, as well as in-depth knowledge of the mobile communications industry,” said Kenneth I. Chenault, chairman and chief executive officer, American Express. “His experience, valuable insight in digital and mobile technology, and deep commitment to diversity in the work place make him an ideal fit for American Express and our board of directors.”

Mr. de la Vega is a director of New York Life Insurance Company. He also serves on the boards of Morehouse College, Junior Achievement Worldwide and the Boy Scouts of America.

Mr. de la Vega has a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Florida Atlantic University (FAU) and a master’s degree in business administration from Northern Illinois University. He is the author of the book “Obstacles Welcome: Turn Adversity to Advantage in Business and Life.”

The election of Mr. de la Vega to the American Express Company Board of Directors is effective May 2, 2016.

About American Express

American Express is a global services company, providing customers with access to products, insights and experiences that enrich lives and build business success. Learn more at americanexpress.com and connect with us on facebook.com/americanexpress, foursquare.com/americanexpress, linkedin.com/company/american-express, twitter.com/americanexpress, and youtube.com/americanexpress.

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