Telstra announces executive shake-up, senior media group executive wished well in future endeavours

Telstra has announced a shake-up of its executive ranks following the sale of directories and classified advertising business Sensis to private equity firm Platinum Equity Group, with one key executive leaving the company.

In a statement to investors, the company says Mark Buckman has been appointed as the company’s new director of media and marketing, while Mike Wright is becoming the company’s group managing director for networks.

The shake-up will see both Buckman and Wright become members of the company’s senior executive group, which assists chief executive David Thodey in setting the company’s key strategic goals.

Meanwhile the company has also announced its former media group executive Rick Ellis is leaving the company, on the grounds that the sale of Sensis has significantly reduced his duties.

In a statement, the company announced that Buckman will take over Ellis’ duties in overseeing the telecommunications giant’s remaining media assets:

“Buckman’s role will be expanded to encompass all of Telstra’s brand and digital media growth activities. Having joined Telstra in late 2010 as chief marketing officer, he took extra responsibilities last year as executive director digital media and IPTV/pay TV.  Buckman will continue reporting to Telstra retail group executive, Gordon Ballantyne.

“Wright, a 33-year veteran of the organisation, is recognised as a leading international network engineer and oversaw the creation of Telstra’s renowned 4G mobile network for its customers. Wright will continue to report to Group Executive Operations, Kate McKenzie

In a statement, Thodey wishes Ellis well in his future endeavours.

“Rick has served Telstra well through an intense period of change. He was a key member of the Telstra leadership team and achieved major outcomes with our Foxtel working relationship and Sensis partnership with Platinum.”