Sonus Seeks New CEO

WESTFORD, Mass. -- Sonus Networks, Inc. (Nasdaq: SONS), a market leader in next generation IP-based network solutions, today announced that Richard Nottenburg plans to step down as President and Chief Executive Officer and a director of the Company by the end of March 2011.

Sonus' Board will commence a search process to identify a new CEO. To ensure a smooth transition, Nottenburg will continue to serve as President, CEO and a director through March 31, 2011, and will assist the Board in its search process.

"When I arrived at Sonus in June 2008, I set forth a clear plan to re-establish the Company's growth, profitability and market leadership," said Nottenburg. "Since then, we have developed and articulated a clear market and product strategy, re-focused on innovation and new product development, right-sized and realigned the business, established strong financial footing and strengthened our management team with key appointments. I am proud of the significant progress Sonus has made, as demonstrated by our solid financial results and the recent launch of the NBS-5200, our first product on our next generation ConnexIP(TM) platform.

"I am eager to explore my next challenge, and I believe that with the strong foundation we have put in place at Sonus, now is the right time to begin transitioning to new leadership," continued Nottenburg. "Sonus has a valuable portfolio of innovative products and solutions, strong customer relationships and some of the best employees in the business and I am confident that the Company is solidly positioned for its next phase of growth and development. I look forward to continuing to lead Sonus until my successor is named and I am committed to working closely with the Board to help identify a new CEO and ensure a smooth transition."

Sonus Networks Inc. (Nasdaq: SONS)