Telstra moves into the mining industry
Telstra, Australia’s largest telecommunications company, is moving into the mining industry with the formation of Telstra Mining Services.
Telstra Mining Services is a strategic investment following the appointment of global mining experts and the acquisition of mining communications technology services business from CBO Telecommunications.
Martijn Blanken, Group Managing Director, Telstra Global Enterprise and Services, said that Telstra Mining Services was a key pillar of Telstra Global Enterprise and Services’ strategy to build new growth businesses.
“These investments are part of our strategy to create a significant global mining technology product and services business,” he said.
“Telstra is committed to becoming a new driving force for mining in Australia by helping the industry transition to a digital future.”
David Keenan, Head of Telstra Global Industries, said: “The decline in global commodity prices is largely driving a downturn in the resources sector and, as a consequence, sharpening the industry’s focus on reducing costs and maximising production.
“This downturn has created a once in a lifetime shift, where miners are looking to technology innovation to help them future proof their operations.
“Telstra Mining Services will be focused on helping our mining customers drive better business outcomes by significantly improving in-shift staff and asset productivity.
“Telstra Mining Services will deliver the technology solutions that makes this possible, such as high bandwidth networks, mobility solutions and software capabilities, through our own developments, strategic partnerships and in bespoke collaboration with customers.”
Telstra has also appointed Jeannette McGill and Eric Nettleton. Starting on July 1, Ms McGill, the recent Head of Technology and Innovation at AngloAmerican Platinum, will be the Head of Telstra Mining Services.
From Johannesburg, McGill is well respected for translating technology insights and trends in global markets to strengthen mining business’ value chain and has a wealth of technical and operational mining experience.
“This investment means we can confidently meet the industry’s communication needs at Australian mine sites. With the addition of Jeannette McGill, Eric Nettleton and the CBO team to the existing Telstra Mining Industry team, we have significantly strengthened our mining specific domain expertise.
“This is only the beginning as we will continue to deepen our capabilities to deliver tailored technology innovation to our mining customers, both in Australia and internationally.”
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