NBN Co. has announced that global telecommunications executive Bill Morrow has been chosen to steer the National Broadband Network through the next stage of its development.
The Vodafone Australia CEO has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of NBN Co Limited, the company responsible for delivering Australia’s nationwide fixed-line broadband upgrade. He will join the company in the New Year and will be based in Sydney.
Mr Morrow’s appointment by the Board of NBN Co comes as the company lays out the framework for delivering fast broadband to Australian homes and businesses sooner and at less cost to taxpayers. The new approach is detailed in the Strategic Review of the NBN which the company has presented to the Government.
Announcing the appointment, NBN Co Executive Chairman Dr Ziggy Switkowski said: “I am delighted that a senior business leader of the calibre of Bill Morrow has agreed to accept the challenge of delivering the long-promised upgrade to Australia’s broadband infrastructure. Bill’s experience extends not only to running major telecommunications businesses but, from his time at Clearwire in the United States, also building a large scale network. He possesses the right mix of talent, experience and deep knowledge of the telecommunications industry to ensure NBN Co can get the job done.”
Mr Morrow said: “I staunchly believe that this important initiative, done right, will provide a boon to the nation’s economy. The digital revolution is picking up speed. With the right infrastructure and industry collaboration, Australia will reap the benefits for decades to come. While I am sad to be leaving a great company like Vodafone, I am looking forward to rolling up my sleeves and ensuring every Australian is able to benefit from a world class National Broadband Network.”
The position description for the role of CEO sought a business leader with experience in telecommunications and network construction, as well as an understanding of fixed line infrastructure and an appreciation of the special characteristics of the Australian industry and the needs of consumers, with the attendant responsibilities associated with heading a large and high profile Government Business Enterprise with a substantial program of work still ahead.
The successful applicant also required experience in organisational transformation and change management and the ability to form and lead high performance teams.
“The NBN Co board is convinced that Bill uniquely satisfies these criteria and, with the support of the Shareholder Ministers, is very pleased to make this appointment,” Dr Switkowski said.
