Highlights
- Andrés Irlando to lead Vocus as new CEO
- Strategic leadership change amid major acquisition
- Vocus gears up for growth in enterprise and wholesale
Vocus, a leading telecommunications company, has announced the appointment of Andrés Irlando as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective from 14 July. Irlando joins the company following his role as President and Chief Operating Officer of Zayo Group, a U.S.-based network infrastructure firm.
This strategic leadership shift comes as Vocus strengthens its market position with a significant acquisition in progress. The company, which was acquired by a consortium comprising Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets and Aware Super in 2021, is aiming to complete its AU$5.25 billion acquisition of TPG Telecom’s (ASX:TPG) enterprise, government, and wholesale fixed business later this year.
A Proven Industry Leader
Irlando brings over two decades of leadership experience across telecommunications and technology sectors. Prior to Zayo Group, he served as CEO of Verizon Connect, a software-as-a-service business, where he led substantial growth and product development initiatives over a six-year tenure.
His extensive experience in scaling operations and managing large infrastructure networks is expected to be instrumental in guiding Vocus through its next phase of growth, especially as the company integrates new assets and expands its national footprint.
Leadership Transition at a Crucial Juncture
Vocus Chair Penny Bingham-Hall emphasized the strategic timing of the leadership change, noting Irlando’s appointment is pivotal as the company advances toward completing the integration of TPG’s enterprise and wholesale units. The move aims to reinforce Vocus’ competitive edge in the rapidly evolving telecom sector, especially in serving large-scale government and business clients.
Interim CEO Jarrod Nink, who has been leading the company over the past eight months, will be stepping aside as the leadership baton is handed over to Irlando. Under Nink’s interim leadership, Vocus maintained stable operations and laid the groundwork for the upcoming transition.
ASX300 Landscape and Broader Implications
This transition aligns with Vocus’ ambitions to solidify its presence in the Australian telecommunications ecosystem. As companies in the ASX300 index continue to focus on innovation and infrastructure resilience, Vocus’ strategic hire signals confidence in the long-term demand for high-performance network solutions, especially in enterprise segments.
Irlando’s appointment is seen as a forward-looking move that positions Vocus for sustainable growth while enhancing shareholder value and strengthening its footprint across Australia.