VimpelCom names Russian CEO
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VimpelCom names Russian CEO

VimpelCom has appointed Mikhail Slobodin as CEO of its operations in Russia.

Slobodin succeeds Anton Kudryashov in the position. Kudryashov has since been appointed chief group business development and portfolio officer executive. Both appointments are effective as of October 14.

Kudryashov has held the role of Russia CEO since 2012 and the move will also see him become a member of the executive board, managing business development from VimpelCom’s head office in Amsterdam.

“The replacement of the CEO may be followed by a further management reshuffle in Russia, as well as strategy revision,” said Sergey Vasin, analyst at Gazprombank.

“The attempt to boost efficiency by changing the management may encourage investors somewhat. However, gauging the effect will only be possible when the new management’s intentions become clear.”

Slobodin held a previous position as EVP for strategy and new business development at energy firm TNK-BP, which earlier this year was bought out by Russian oil producer Rosneft.

“Mikhail is an accomplished and recognised leader with many significant achievements in his career,” said Jo Lunder, CEO at VimpelCom.

“I look forward to successful implementation of the already-launched strategic initiatives, to the further growth of our Russian business under his guidance.”

The reshuffle follows reports last month that Vimpelcom was eyeing market consolidation opportunities in a number of locations worldwide.

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