Swedish telco Telia Company has announced the appointment of Patrik Hofbauer as its new president and CEO.
Hofbauer will begin the role from February 1, 2024, and will join from gambling firm Svenska Spel, where he is currently CEO.
It brings an end to Telia's search for a CEO after the company announced in July that its current head Allison Kirkby would leave to join BT.
The decision to appoint Hofbauer was agreed by the board of directors. Hofbauer has previous experience in the telecoms industry, and was CEO of Telenor Sweden for four years until 2018.
“The Board and I are convinced that Patrik is the right person to continue leading this work as President and CEO, together with Telia’s experienced executive management team and dedicated colleagues across the organization," said Lars-Johan Jarnheimer, Telia Company’s chair of the board.
Hofbauer added: "Telia plays an important role for its customers and the societies it serves and is uniquely positioned to continue driving digitalization across its footprint and build on its network and technology leadership position.
"While I have most recently been working outside telecoms, I have followed recent industry developments with great interest, and I am ready to continue executing on Telia’s strategy and move forward with its digital transformation program.”
Hofbauer has also had other senior roles, including CEO of Telenor Broadcasting in Norway (2011-2014), CEO of Clear Channel in Sweden (2009-2010), CEO of Canal Digital in Sweden (2005-2009), and CEO of NEC Scandinavia (1999-2004).
