Singapore, 27 Feb, 2014 - The Singtel Group wishes to announce that Mr Kevin Russell, CEO Consumer Australia will leave Optus on 31 March 2014. Transition arrangements and recruitment of Mr Russell's replacement are underway. In the interim Mr Paul O’Sullivan, Singtel’s CEO, Group Consumer, will act as Consumer Australia CEO and Country Chief Officer Australia.

Mr O’Sullivan said “Kevin joined Optus just over two years ago and has provided strong leadership in repositioning the company. Several months ago Kevin told me that he wished to move on to other challenges on completion of this phase, after ensuring an orderly transition that embeds the strategic transformation he has led.

“Kevin has worked with our management team to roll out a number of positive changes to Optus. We have a strong leadership team in place to deliver our goal of becoming Australia’s most loved service brand, and with the recent transformation of Optus’ mobile network and customer experience, we are well placed for the year ahead.

“In coming months we will focus on accelerating market momentum, extending our lead in customer experience and transforming our business further.

“I wish Kevin all success for the future and thank him for his significant contribution over the past two years”.