Ex-HSBC head to lead Openreach

UK incumbent BT said that ex-head of HSBC UK, Joe Garner, is to become CEO of wholesale business Openreach in mid-February. Garner replaces Liv Garfield, who is leaving to become CEO of Severn Trent.

Garner worked for many years at HSBC, Dixons and Procter & Gamble. His most recent role was at HSBC where, as head of the UK Bank, he helped lead HSBC through the financial crisis, rebuilding profitability and strengthening the balance sheet.

Garner said: “The massive investment that Openreach is making in the UK’s high speed internet infrastructure is something of a revolution that will greatly benefit people and businesses in this country. It is my ambition to build on this work and I intend to focus on customer service, continued innovation and maintaining fair and equal access for all.”