Telstra Restructure Reunites IT and Networks

Telstra has restructured its operations by combining its IT and networks under a single function. Kim Krogh Andersen has been appointed as the leader of the new 'Network, Product and Technology' function. The changes are part of Telstra's Connected Future 30 strategy, aiming to enhance network service flexibility.

The impact sits in capacity, compute costs and supply chains: one deployment or bottleneck can change how companies buy chips, cloud contracts and data-centre space. Readers should track whether the announcement turns into available infrastructure, not just a product claim.

Telstra Restructures IT and Networks

Telstra is reuniting its IT and networks divisions under a single function and executive, appointing Kim Krogh Andersen as the leader of this newly formed unit, named the 'Network, Product and Technology' function.

This internal change was announced yesterday and combines the responsibilities of Andersen, who previously oversaw the 'Product & Technology' remit, with those of Shailin Sehgal, who led 'Global Networks & Technology' before leaving the company.

This restructure aligns with Telstra's Connected Future 30 strategy, which has been in place for a year and aims to make the telco's network services more customizable and flexible in terms of configuration and sales.

Previously, Telstra had integrated networks and IT under one function for its Connect22 strategy but later separated them.

Andersen joined Telstra in early 2020 and took on responsibilities for software engineering, IT, data, and AI in 2022.

With this latest restructuring, he will also oversee Telstra's wireless and fixed networks, cybersecurity, and cloud infrastructure, all now part of the new internal function.

New Unit and Staffing Changes

In addition to the new function, Telstra is creating a unit called 'Telstra Digital Infrastructure,' which will consolidate Telstra InfraCo, Telstra International, and Field Services.

This new unit will be led by the current InfraCo CEO, Steve Worrall.

An internal announcement noted that as demand for Telstra's scalable, secure, and reliable infrastructure grows, these organizational changes will help support the delivery of the digital infrastructure layer of the strategy and position Telstra to meet evolving global connectivity needs.

However, the creation of Telstra Digital Infrastructure is expected to result in a net reduction of around 111 roles.

Telstra CEO Vicki Brady expressed gratitude to Sehgal for his contributions over the past seven years, highlighting his role in championing innovation and enhancing Telstra's leadership in network connectivity, security, and resiliency.

Brady stated that the company is committed to consulting with affected employees regarding the proposed changes.

If roles are eliminated, Telstra will assist those impacted in finding new positions within the company or provide access to redundancy packages and support services.