Vodafone has today announced the creation of Vodafone Internet Services, which will lead the development and delivery of Vodafone's current and future consumer propositions for the internet. As a result, Vodafone has appointed Pieter Knook, a senior vice president of Microsoft, to the newly formed role of Director of Internet Services.
Vodafone Internet Services will focus on the provision and delivery of distinctive consumer web services such as IP communications, mobile internet access and selected content categories, through mobile devices. Knook will be responsible for delivering new revenue growth around internet, content and advertising with a focus on differentiating Vodafone's services by creating rich and distinctive experiences for customers.
Knook, 49, joins Vodafone on 10 March, following 17 years with Microsoft where, as one of the most senior executives in the company, he spent the last 5 years as Senior Vice President running Microsoft's Mobile business, including strategy, product development, marketing and sales. During his time with Microsoft, Pieter led a wide range of programmes across seven businesses. He will report to Frank Rovekamp, Global Chief Marketing Officer, Vodafone Group.
"Leading Vodafone Internet Services calls for a world class leader of considerable stature and experience." said Rovekamp. "We are delighted that Pieter is joining us to help transform the customer experience through the mobile internet, meet growing customer demand for web services accessed from mobile devices and drive revenues within our Mobile Plus strategy. Pieter has an impressive track record across technical, sales, marketing and business management disciplines covering the US, Asia and Europe."
"I am very excited to join Vodafone Group," said Pieter Knook. "I look forward to serving Vodafone's customers with innovative internet based services, as well as bringing new software and services expertise to a company that is renowned for its worldwide customer reach, mobility offerings and its focus on high quality execution."
Vodafone's Mobile Plus strategy focuses on the company's aim to address fixed line revenue opportunities, develop integrated mobile and PC offerings and create advertising revenue streams.