Esser (pictured) is credited with more than doubling the size of the business, which now claims the title of the largest private telecom company in America serving nearly seven million homes and businesses across 18 states.
In recent months, Cox has launched Cox Edge, a full-stack edge-cloud computing service, and acquired the commercial side of EQT’s Segra fibre business for an undisclosed sum.
Esser said: "I've always been fascinated by the cable business and have been fortunate to find a special family-owned company that lives its values.
"I'm grateful for the tremendous opportunities I've been given at Cox and the numerous mentors and committed peers that have helped me along this unbelievable ride of a lifetime."
Alex Taylor, president and CEO of parent company Cox Enterprises, said: "We are extremely thankful to Pat Esser for his leadership at Cox Communications. He has grown the business consistently over the years. Even more meaningfully he has done it in the right way — by treating people well and making a positive impact in our communities. Pat is an extraordinary leader."
Filling Esser's shoes is current EVP and chief sales and marketing officer Mark Greatrex.
He said: "I am honoured to be leading this very special company with a celebrated history, and an exciting future full of optimism and great momentum. We have a winning strategy and I look forward to amplifying the incredible values of the Cox family and the mission to improve the lives of the next generation."
With the business since 2011, Greatrex leads the company's residential sales team and marketing activities, which have already driven growth in broadband market share.
He has also worked to develop the Cox brand and brought to market innovations such as Gigablast, Contour TV and Panoramic Wifi.
Esser added: "Cox Communications is in exceptionally good hands. Mark is a strong and visionary leader who will sustain and amplify the momentum he's helped to achieve in the industry. His energy, creativity and sharp strategic sensibilities will drive continued innovation, excellence and passion for our customers. I wish him the best as he moves into his new role."
