Gladys Berejiklian has been appointed to Optus’ executive team in a “game changing” move, four months after she resigned from politics.
The former NSW premier has been appointed managing director, enterprise, business and institutional for the telecommunications giant.
Optus chief executive Kelly Bayer Rosmarin said Ms Berejiklian was a proven leader who “demonstrated her renowned strength, leadership, disxjmtzywcipline, and composure in successfully guiding Australia’s largest state through one of the biggest challenges in its history.
“She also builds and fosters loyal and dedicated teams who really go above and beyond for her,” Ms Bayer Rosmarin said.
“I believe she will be a game-changer for Optus. In bringing our business-focused teams together under this newly created role, I truly believe that our collective energies can deliver superior customer outcomes in market segments that continue to be dominated by the incumbent.”
Ms Berejiklian resigned from politics in October after the state’s Independent Commission Against Corruption announced it would be investigating whether she breached public trust due to an undeclared relationship with disgraced former Wagga Wagga MP and ex-partner Daryl Maguire.
Despite being touted as a Liberal candidate for the federal seat of Warringah in this year’s election, Ms Berejiklian declared she was looking forward to a “private” life away from politics.
In December, Ms Berejiklian said federal politics was “not something” she wanted to do.
“I’m going in a different direction and I’m looking forward to the opportunities that next year brings,” she said at the time.
Speaking about her new appointment, Ms Berejiklian said she was “excited and proud” to join Optus.
“(Optus) impacts the lives of millions of Australians every day and prides itself in providing outstanding customer service,” she said.
“I look forward to working with Kelly and the executive team of Optus who are providing inspiring and innovative leadership in the telco sector.”
Ms Berejiklian will commence her new role on February 28.
The corruption watchdog’s findings are due to be handed down later this month.
