Verizon has appointed the head of its wireless division, Lowell McAdam, as president and COO of Verizon Communications.

The promotion clarifies the succession of Verizon’s leadership as CEO Ivan Seidenberg prepares to retire.

In his new post, McAdam will oversee Verizon’s wireless and landline businesses, as well as its services operations. He will report directly to Seidenberg.

Seidenberg said in a statement that McAdam is “undeniably the right executive at the right time.” His appointment goes into effect Oct. 1.

“These management changes put Verizon in position to win, and without disruption to our operations,” Seidenberg said. “Having such a strong bench to tap puts us in an enviable position, and we are taking full advantage of it.”

McAdam has led Verizon Wireless since 2007 after serving as executive vice president and COO of the unit since its inception in 2000. He will be replaced by Dan Mead, who is currently COO of Verizon Wireless.

John Stratton, chief marketing officer at Verizon Wireless, will succeed Mead as COO. Stratton was instrumental in Verizon Wireless’ well-known “Can You Hear Me Now?” campaign.