Telecom veteran P Balaji has resigned from Microsoft devices (earlier known as Nokia India) following the acquisition of phone business by the software giant.
Recently, Microsoft announced its decision to eliminate around 18,000 jobs across the globe to streamline its business. Balaji’s decision to leave Microsoft is not connected to the IT giant’s plans to cut jobs and restructure business.
Last month, Microsoft devices head Stephen Elop sent a letter to the company employees explaining the strategy behind the decision to cut 18,000 jobs.
Also read: Microsoft devices head Stephen Elop letter on 18,000 job cut
Microsoft completed the $7.4 billion Nokia deal in April — after making several changes in the earlier agreement.
Balaji, who is well known in the Indian telecom industry for government and corporate relations, joined Nokia India as managing director in July 2012, after heading Sony Ericsson’s India operations for a short period and Ericsson earlier.
During Balaji’s time, Nokia lost considerable market share in India. Nokia lost substantial market share to rivals such as Samsung, Micromax, Karbonn, Lava, etc.
Also read: India smartphone share: Samsung 35%, Micromax 15, Karbonn 10, LAVA 6, Nokia 4
Microsoft will be looking for a new head for its devices business.
Ajey Mehta, the current Head of Sales Operations – India Middle East and Africa, will be the acting Area Head for India. Ajey will continue in his current role at the same time.
Balaji, who has been associated with the telecom industry for over two decades, joined Nokia India as MD replacing the company’s former India head D Shivakumar.
Top level changes in the smartphone industry are on. Recently, Samsung IT and Mobile head Vineet Taneja joined Micromax, which became the largest phone vendor overtaking Samsung, as managing director. Sanjay Kapoor, former-CEO of Airtel India, has also joined Micromax as its executive chairman.
