BT Openreach's founding father quits job

BT Openreach's boss Steve Robertson is leaving, after six years heading up BT's network access business.

"His achievements at the helm of Openreach have been tremendous," said BT chief Ian Livingston.

"He decided a while ago that, after six years running Openreach, it was time to pass over to someone else to take the business on to the next stage of transformation. His enthusiasm and drive will be missed."

Robertson will be replaced by Olivia Garfield as the telco's new Openreach CEO.

Garfield currently holds the role of BT group director of strategy and regulatory affairs. She will replace Robertson on 1 April, said BT.

"Robertson is to remain with BT to help ensure a smooth handover before leaving to exploit new opportunities," said the telco.

Garfield's strategic portfolio will include the delivery of BT's "super-fast" fibre broadband technology.

The company added that Sean Williams, who is BT's current head of retail strategy, will replace Garfield as group strategy director. ®