Ericsson's Emilio Romeo to depart at end of month

Emilio Romeo, who was CEO of Ericsson Australia and New Zealand for over nine years before transitioning to a regional executive role back in April, has announced he will be leaving the company on 30 September after a 28-year tenure.

After beginning his career at BHP, Romeo joined Ericsson in 1997, taking on various IT management and sales roles.

He went on to be named the GM of mobility, PSTN and satellite sales, before taking over as director of the Vodafone Hutchison Australia customer unit in 2009.

He was subsequently appointed as the director of the Telstra customer unit in 2010 and took over as CEO in January 2016.

In January of this year, it was announced that he would shift to an executive strategic advisor role for Southeast Asia, Oceania and India.

The role included providing expertise and advice for the establishment and execution of strategic programs and initiatives to defend and grow core business, and win in new segments across the region, particularly in South East Asia.

The company named Ludvig Landgren as its new head of Australia and New Zealand from May 1 onward.

Romeo took to LinkedIn to announce the news, saying that while its hard to distil 28 years into a single post, what stands out most is the privilege of leading a technology company that helped redefine how Australians and New Zealanders connect, communicate, and innovate.

"Together with an extraordinary team we launched three generations of mobile technology and shaped the region’s digital future; even more rewarding is the positive impact we’ve made in local communities through purposeful technology," he said.

"I’m especially proud of leading the team that delivered significant growth in our financial performance, positioning Ericsson ANZ in the top five performing markets globally (in terms of revenue % contribution)."

Romeo said more than the milestones, it’s the people who made the journey meaningful.

"I’ve had the privilege of working with brilliant colleagues, visionary customers, and trusted partners across the globe. Thank you for the collaboration, the challenges, and the trust," he said.

"While I’m stepping away from Ericsson, I’m not stepping away from the technology industry. I’m energised to continue contributing, with strong momentum, to the Region’s broader technology and start-up ecosystem - through leading, advising, investing, and supporting the next wave of innovation.

"I leave Ericsson ANZ in excellent hands with Ludvig Landgren at the helm. With his deep regional experience, I’m confident the team will continue shaping the future of connectivity."

Ericsson has been contacted by techpartner.news for comment.