Advanced Info Service, Thailand’s largest mobile operator, is restructuring its management for a major business diversification, a top executive says.

The restructure has emerged as the Thai telecom industry prepares for a 3G licensing auction on the 2100 MHz frequency scheduled for October.

Under the restructure, Somchai Lertsutiwong will move from executive vice-president for marketing to the newly created position of chief marketing officer. He will be responsible for exploring new areas for business development.

Mark Chong Chin Kok, the chief operating officer, will also be appointed as deputy executive vice-president for marketing to temporarily take over Mr Somchai’s tasks.

The changes will take effect this Friday.

Mr Somchai has served as executive vice-president for marketing for five years, the longest for that post. He will become one of the top four management executives at AIS, required to declare his shareholding stake to the Stock Exchange of Thailand.

AIS’s parent InTouch Plc, formerly known as Shin Corporation, recently announced its plan to jump into the red-hot digital television fray under a planned licence from the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission.

Vice-chairman Somprasong Boonyachai said InTouch is preparing to form a new subsidiary to operate the digital TV service. The strategy is part of the group’s policy to focus on its core telecom and media businesses.

Mr Somprasong said InTouch would probably enter a joint venture with prospective digital TV operators and content providers. The company already has all the equipment and infrastructure for both mobile phones and satellite, which could make for a fast transition to digital TV.

http://www.bangkokpost.com/business/telecom/289403/ais-lays-out-restructure

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