British telecommunications giant BT has taken a strategic step by appointing Jon James as the new chief executive for its Business unit. Previously at Danish telecom provider Nuuday, James will start his role in March, succeeding Bas Burger. Burger became chief with the merger of BT’s enterprise divisions in late 2022. This move is expected to allow Burger to focus on optimizing BT’s international operations and explore other opportunities.
James’s record at Nuuday, where he oversaw transformation and resurgence, stands out. His experience with European telecom markets makes him a valuable asset as BT sharpens its focus on the UK’s telecom sector. Alison Kirkby, BT Group’s chief executive, emphasized James’s capabilities in transforming and growing businesses as significant for their UK-centric strategy.
In the previous fiscal year, BT announced plans to simplify and make its global business UK-centric. The company is targeting a massive cost reduction of £3 billion by 2030. Additionally, Burger’s new role involves solving the international business challenges, suggesting possibilities with partners or even buyers for initiatives like the Global Fabric network-as-a-service. This platform connects global enterprises with localized edge cloud services. According to a report, they have 630 network partners and 700 data center partners globally.
James’s prior accomplishments in leading businesses form a crucial aspect of this transition. His past roles in private equity and executive positions at companies like Tele2 and Virgin Media demonstrate a wealth of experience in business turnarounds.
During this period of consolidation, BT Business merged its national and international enterprise factions, streamlining operations. The merger included folding its innovation unit, Division X, into its main product team.
Jon James expressed enthusiasm about building a robust asset for customers and stakeholders, leveraging BT Business’s deep customer relationships and top-tier technological expertise. The aim is to create a “stronger asset for customers, shareholders, and the UK.”
