Microsoft A/NZ leader to move to Telstra InfraCo

Telstra InfraCo will be led by Microsoft’s managing director for Australia and New Zealand Steven Worrall from the end of September.

Steven Worrall.

The telco said in an ASX filing that Worrall would join on September 1, with a month-long handover by current InfraCo chief Brendon Riley.

Riley is retiring on September 30.

Telstra CEO Vicki Brady said Worrall is “a highly regarded leader known for strong delivery in global tech, AI, and business and consumer segments and for his collaborative approach to working with public and private sector partners, stakeholders and internal teams.”

“Steven’s approach to partnerships, such as Microsoft’s $5 billion Australian investment in cloud computing and AI  infrastructure, coupled with his experience leading and growing technology and software businesses are great fits for our ambitions for Telstra InfraCo,” she said.

Worrall has been at Microsoft for almost 11 years, eight-and-a-half years as its local leader.

He previously spent considerable time at IBM.

Meanwhile, Brady reflected on Riley’s departure, noting he had “made significant contributions” in a 13-year stint.

“Under Brendon, Telstra InfraCo was launched and is now a strong digital infrastructure business,” she said.

“We will miss [Riley’s] passion for the company, commitment to the development of its talent, his advocacy for customers and regional Australia, and the important role he has played as a senior leader. 

“We all wish Brendon the very best as he moves to the next stage of his career as a non-executive director and advisor.”