Network infrastructure vendor Alcatel-Lucent has appointed a new CEO in former Vodafone Europe CEO Michel Combes. Combes will begin his role April 1, 2013 and will also join the company’s board of directors, subject to the approval of shareholders.

As well as being Vodafone Europe’s CEO and member of the operator’s board, Combes has also held the positions of chairman and CEO of French firm TDF as well as CFO and senior executive VP of operator France Telecom.

“As chief executive he will be responsible for delivering sustainable profitability,” said Philippe Camus, chairman of Alcatel-Lucent’s Board.

“His deep knowledge of the industry as well as his experience of major business and financial transformation at a worldwide level will be pivotal in helping the company pursue its aggressive transformation, while meeting customer needs with disruptive innovation.”

Camus also thanked former CEO Ben Verwaayen for his years of service and said that Verwaayen and Combes will work closely together over the next few weeks to ensure a smooth transition.

Michel Combes added: “This is a company I know well and I look forward to succeeding Ben, working with the key international customers, and driving the business into sustained profitability for its customers, employees and shareholders.”

Alcatel-Lucent’s Board of Directors also approved the appointment of Jean C. Monty as Vice-Chairman of the Board.

Monty began his career at Bell Canada in 1974 and held numerous positions in the Bell Canada group. He has also been president, COO and CEO at Nortel Networks.

“We are fortunate to have such an experienced colleague to support Michel Combes in his new role,” added Camus. “I’m looking forward to working more closely with Jean and I’m convinced Alcatel-Lucent will benefit from his incredible knowledge of our business.”