TeleWest axes regional divisions to boost digital services

TeleWest is to scrap its regional management structure – a relic of its growth through the acquisition of local cable companies – and speed up the launch of its digital cable TV and Internet services.

At present, the cable company, which reports third-quarter results this week, is organised under a “federal” structure, with five self-supporting regions led by their own managing director.

From January 1, these posts will be axed and new senior roles created to cover sales, operations and business development. The appointees will report to Bruce Langham, previously managing director of TeleWest’s Scotland and North-east region, who became group managing director for the residential business in September (MW September 23).

Dave Thomas, ex-managing director of TeleWest’s Midlands and South-west region, becomes operations director, while Ian Fishwick, former managing director of the London and South-east region, is named as development director.

Langham will take on responsibility for sales, with three sales directors reporting to him.

Chris Charnock, regional managing director for Yorkshire and the west of London, and Iain Bolland, regional managing director for the North-west, are to leave the company.

Langham says: “Applying common, consistent practices across the organisation means we can face the competitive challenge from companies unencumbered by inherited regional differences.”

Last month, TeleWest launched its digital TV service, offering consumers the chance to pick and mix channels.