Telstra will set up a new software startup it hopes to deliver new revenue streams and protect its mobile business against the threat posed by the over-the-top players.
The company announced Wednesday that the new group, dubbed Global Applications and Platforms, will be led by group managing director Kate McKenzie. It will fall under the banner of the incumbent carrier’s Innovation, Products and Marketing business unit.
“Our industry is changing rapidly,” McKenzie said. “The future is in the software layer and there is an application for absolutely everything.”
“With successful over the top players growing exponentially, we need to continue to find ways to take challenger positions in this space.
“Telstra is moving from providing mobile and internet services to encompassing applications and integrated services. This new software defined world presents many opportunities, not least the ability to move faster.
The new group will operate as a startup company drawing on the considerable assets of the broader organization. The startup is set to begin operation on February 1, and will be built up over three years.
Charlotte Yarkoni has been appointed executive director for the new group. Yarkoni previously has held senior leadership roles at EMC and VMWare and has also worked for AT&T. She will assume her new role on March 1.
The team will include a mix of existing and new employees and will work alongside the company’s applications and ventures group, which will continue to focus on important ventures activities, McKenzie said.