Meet the New CEO of XLSmart, the Company Resulting from the Merger of XL and Smartfren

Kapanlagi.com - In an exciting official announcement, Rajeev Sethi has been proposed as the CEO for the merged company XL Axiata and Smartfren, which will be known as XLSmart. This strategic move is part of a historic merger process targeted to be completed in the first half of 2025.

Rajeev Sethi, with extensive experience in the telecommunications industry, has successfully transformed various global technology companies. With the establishment of XLSmart, there are high hopes that this new entity can become a leader in the telecommunications market, both locally and regionally, by offering innovative solutions and the latest technology.

As CEO, Sethi will lead strategic initiatives to align the organization's vision and mission, as well as leverage the existing synergies between XL Axiata and Smartfren. This merger is not just a business combination, but also has great potential to drive Indonesia's digital economic growth through the development of 5G networks, artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud-based solutions.

1. Rajeev Sethi's Career Journey in the Telecommunications World

Rajeev Sethi, an experienced executive with over two decades in the information and communication technology sector, is now preparing to take over as CEO of XLSmart after successfully leading Robi Axiata, a leading telecommunications operator in Bangladesh.

Known as the architect of the transformation of Ooredoo Myanmar, which made it a major player in the mobile industry, Sethi also has an impressive background as Chief Commercial Officer at Airtel Africa and has worked with giants like Vodafone and Hewlett-Packard.

With an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management in Lucknow that serves as the foundation of his leadership strategy, Sethi now faces the significant challenge of uniting XL Axiata and Smartfren into a dominant force in the Indonesian market.

2. Composition of the XLSmart Board of Directors

In an exciting strategic move, XL Axiata and Smartfren announced their merger with the launch of a new board of directors for XLSmart, led by Rajeev Sethi as CEO.

This team also includes Antony Susilo as Chief Financial Officer and Shurish Subbramaniam as Chief Technology Officer, while Yessie D. Yosetya serves as Chief Information Officer and Merza Fachys, who previously held the position of President Director at Smartfren, as Chief Regulatory Officer.

The combination of experience from both telecommunications giants is designed to create optimal synergy in facing the increasingly competitive industry challenges. Vivek Sood, CEO of Axiata Group, believes that this board of directors has the right expertise to adapt to market dynamics, while Franky Oesman Widjaja from Sinar Mas emphasizes this team's focus on operational continuity and service innovation that will delight customers.

3. The Grand Vision of XLSmart for Telecommunications in Indonesia

The monumental merger between XL Axiata and Smartfren is not just an asset consolidation, but a bold strategic move to accelerate digital transformation in Indonesia.

With a total company value reaching IDR 104 trillion, XLSmart is targeted to become the market leader with a share of around 27%. This ambitious vision includes the development of 5G networks, artificial intelligence-based solutions, and advanced cloud computing services.

This move aligns with the government's mission to enhance digital inclusion and technological competitiveness in the country. Furthermore, the cost synergies generated are expected to save up to USD 400 million per year. Rajeev Sethi will lead this transition with a primary focus on improving customer service and product innovation.

This project is expected to not only benefit customers but also have a positive impact on the national technology ecosystem.

4. The Integration Challenge of XL Axiata and Smartfren

The integration between two telecommunications giants, XL Axiata and Smartfren, is no small feat. One of the biggest challenges is uniting the different network infrastructures and organizational cultures. However, I Gede Darmayusa, who has been entrusted as the Chief Integration and Network Officer, has devised a smart strategy to ensure this transition goes smoothly.

In addition, meeting customer expectations for quality service at competitive prices presents its own challenge. With the support of an experienced team, XLSmart is determined to overcome various obstacles through innovation and operational optimization.

The strong foundation of the Axiata Group and Sinar Mas is expected to strengthen this collaboration, creating significant added value for all parties involved.

5. The Impact of the Merger on Customers and the Industry

This merger that has shaken the Indonesian telecommunications industry promises a revolution for customers, with access to faster, broader, and more reliable services. The integration of technology will give birth to innovative products ready to pamper users.

Not only that, this merger also encourages healthier competition in the market, enhancing the efficiency and quality of the services offered.

XLSmart is expected to be a driving force for digital economic growth in the country, reflecting the strong commitment of Axiata Group and Sinar Mas in supporting telecommunications transformation.

6. Who is Rajeev Sethi?

Rajeev Sethi currently serves as the CEO of XLSmart, bringing with him a wealth of experience from the telecommunications world, having been shaped at leading companies such as Airtel and Robi Axiata.

7. What is the purpose of the merger between XL Axiata and Smartfren?

In an ambitious step towards a brighter future, this merger aims to create a telecommunications giant that is not only more resilient but also ready to provide higher quality services and accelerate digital transformation across Indonesia.

8. What makes XLSmart superior in the market?

XLSmart combines the expertise and innovation of XL Axiata and Smartfren, delivering services that are not only advanced but also reach a wider audience.

(kpl/srr)