APPOINTMENT OF PHIL BENTLEY AS NEW CEO
Cable & Wireless Communications Plc ("CWC") is pleased to announce the appointment of Phil Bentley as Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Tony Rice, with effect from 1 January 2014.
Phil was previously Managing Director at British Gas, the UK's leading energy and services provider between 2007 and 2013. Prior to this he was Managing Director, Europe and Group Finance Director at Centrica plc and served on its Board since 2000.
Tony has decided to step down as CEO, ahead of the establishment of CWC's new executive office in Miami, Florida, and will leave the Board at the end of 2013.
Phil will take forward the Company's strategy of establishing CWC as the leading provider of mobile, fixed line and broadband communications services in Latin America and the Caribbean region. CWC is investing in its operations in the region, particularly in mobile data, high-speed broadband and customer experience systems, as well as considering strategic acquisition opportunities. It has also committed to reducing operating costs by US$100 million over the next two years.
Phil led the turnaround of British Gas, increasing profits from £300 million to £1.1 billion, and sales by over 30% to £14 billion. The turnaround saw British Gas lead the industry in service excellence, employee engagement and innovation. Prior to Centrica he held senior executive roles at Diageo and BP.