LONDON—Vodafone Group plc announced a new organizational structure the carrier said would allow it to compete more efficiently on a global scale while also focusing on new technology evolutions like convergence and IP services.
“This new structure is an important step forward for the Group as it is aligned with our evolving strategy and addresses the different priorities across the Group. It will enable us to continue to outperform our competitors as the changes deliver a streamlined and simple structure with a clear focus,” said Arun Sarin, Vodafone’s chief executive.
Vodafone’s new structure will essentially split the carrier into three main businesses:
1, Europe;
2, Central Europe, the Middle East, Asia Pacific and Vodafone affiliates; and,
3, new businesses and innovation.
Bill Morrow, currently head of Vodafone’s business in Japan, will head up the carrier’s European operations, which will include the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany and elsewhere. Paul Donovan, currently head of the carrier’s Other Vodafone Subsidiaries operations, will head up the carrier’s Central Europe, Middle East, Asia Pacific and affiliates division. Finally, Thomas Geitner, Vodafone’s chief technical officer, will head the company’s new businesses and innovation unit. The unit will oversee Vodafone’s partnerships and research and development efforts.
Vodafone’s interest in Verizon Wireless—which many industry analysts expect the carrier to eventually sell—falls under Donovan’s division.
Analysts see Vodafone’s new structure as an effort to mollify investors who claim the carrier is too slow to compete effectively in its various markets.
