Airtel appoints new Product and Innovation Director for Africa Operations

·         Telco operator sees innovation as key to sector’s growth in Africa

·         Tapping the best resources is poised to enhance its growing credentials in rolling out relevant products

September15^th  2011 As part of its drive to deliver relevant and innovative mobile solutions in Africa, Bharti Airtel has announced the appointment of Willie Ellis as the Product and Innovation Director for Africa.  Willie brings over 16 years experience in telecommunications. Most recently, Willie was the Managing Executive responsible for New Product Development in Vodacom South Africa.

During the period, Willie was responsible for creating and leading IT & Billing, Products and Services, Technology Strategy, Architecture and Planning across Vodacom . Most notably, he contributed to the evolution of the Vodacom product suite from being voice centric to a much larger focus on data.

Speaking about the appointment, Airtel’s Chief Marketing Officer for Africa, Andre Beyers said:

“Airtel intends to be at the forefront of mobile innovation that has direct benefit to millions of customers especially in voice, data and content. We are making bold steps in bolstering our ability to produce and commercialize world class products, whilst enhancing our innovation credentials in a rapidly evolving voice and data communication environment. We will use consumer insights to develop and roll-out innovative, best-in-class products and services that delight our customers every day and create a high degree of differentiation.”

Mr Ellis holds degrees in Computer Science and Business Administration.