Amarasekera replaces Simon John Perkins as MD of Ncell
Ncell, the Nepalese telecoms operator owned by Axiata Group, has appointed Suren J. Amarasekera (pictured) as managing director.
Amarasekera succeeds Simon John Perkins, who will be moving to his new role at Axiata head office supporting the South Asia operations.
Amarasekera brings to the table 25 years of extensive experience in the telecommunications industry, including nine years of CEO experience and 16 years of senior management experience in renowned telcos such as Singtel, Sri Lanka Telecom’s Mobitel, Maxis and Aircel Limited (India).
“With his extensive telco experience spanning India, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Singapore with globally reputed telecom companies, the board is confident that Ncell will achieve new milestones under his leadership, including digital inclusion for the overall advancement of the country,” the company said in a statement.
Commenting on his appointment, Amarasekera said, "I am proud to have been given this opportunity. I am looking forward to joining Ncell and build on the brand to be one that is loved by its consumers, while contributing in the vision of Digital Nepal and delivering on Axiata’s vision of Advancing Asia.”
GSMA hires new chief strategy officer
The GSMA has appointed Laxmi Akkaraju as chief strategy officer, effective September 1.
In her new role, Akkaraju will work with the GSMA’s operator members in identifying opportunities that will advance the development of the mobile communications industry. She will report to GSMA director general Mats Granryd.
Akkaraju has more than 20 years of experience in the IT industry across India, Norway and the US, and was recently recognized as one of the top 10 women leaders in technology in Norway.
Akkaraju joins the GSMA from EVRY, where she was most recently senior vice president of global delivery, overseeing the offshoring services for the IT company and EVRY clients. She also spent two years as country manager for EVRY’s operation in Bangalore, India.
Prior to her stint at EVRY, Akkaraju was director of operations and professional services for Mu Dynamics, a Silicon Valley-based provider of network security solutions for Fortune 500 companies. She has also held various positions in consulting and management training at HolteConsulting.