Sony Ericsson loses North American division head

by Stevie Smith - Mar 24 2009, 16:30

Mobile phone heavyweight Sony Ericsson has confirmed that Najmi Jarwala, the head honcho assigned to its U.S. and North American divisions, is setting out in search of new professional challenges at the end of March.

Jarwala’s imminent departure is described by Sony Ericsson as a decision spawned from the need “to pursue other career opportunities,” – although those opportunities are not outlined and the outgoing executive has not yet indicated his next move.

From Sony Ericsson’s perspective, the resulting void will be filled in the interim by Anders Runevad, executive vice president of Global Sales and Marketing, who will assume Jarwala’s duties until a permanent replacement can be secured.

“Under Najmi’s leadership we have redefined our North American strategy built operational excellence and strengthened our total presence considerably in this very important market,” commented Sony Ericsson president Dick Komiyama in reflecting on Jarwala’s services.

“We are sad to see him leave Sony Ericsson after more than three successful years, but at the same time we wish him all the best for the future,” he added.

In a move to offset gathering rumours that suggest the joint venture between Japanese electronics giant Sony Corp. and Swedish telecommunications outfit Ericsson is at breaking point, a spokesman for Sony has said the companies “will continue to be committed to the joint venture.”

Rumours to the contrary began gaining momentum after the companies announced that current economic slowdown and a declining demand in Sony Ericsson mobile phones could result in massive first-quarter losses of up to $533 million USD.

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