Simon Moutter has been appointed as Telecom’s chief executive and managing director.

He will take over the role on September 1 this year according to a New Zealand Newspaper.

Moutter is currently CEO of Auckland International Airport and has previously held senior roles at Telecom, including Chief Operating Officer. Before that he was chief executive at Powerco.

In a statement released by Telecom this morning, chairman Verbiest said Moutter'''s knowledge of the telecommunications industry in New Zealand was strong and deep, and he was a proven CEO of a significant listed organisation.

"He has also demonstrated that he can deliver growth in a challenging environment by transforming the customer experience at Auckland International Airport," he said.

"As such, the Telecom board is confident Simon has the right skill set to lead Telecom as it adapts to the opportunities and challenges driven by significant changes to its structure and operating environment."

"The recruitment process has been extremely robust, conducted over a period of several months, and many high calibre candidates were attracted to the role. Ultimately the board was unanimous that Simon was the best candidate, and we are delighted to have secured his services," said Verbiest.

"It is also pleasing that the best candidate for the job has been shown to be a New Zealander.

"Simon has a proven ability to lead companies in developing and delivering compelling services for customers.

"He was instrumental in the transformation of Telecom in the early 2000s, where the company pushed strongly into the IT services sector with the acquisition and expansion of Gen-i, the turnaround of Telecom mobile, and the roll out of nation wide broadband services."

In the same release, Moutter said he was excited to be returning to Telecom.

"I feel privileged to be selected to lead a resurgent Telecom as it reshapes for success in an even more dynamic communications services market post the demerger," he said.