Huawei appoints former BT chairman Sir Michael Rake to its board

Rake has been an advisor to Huawei in the UK since the start of last year

Huawei has announced the appointment of former BT chairman Sir Michael Rake to the board of Huawei Technologies UK.

Rake has been an advisor to Huawei since the start of January last year, with Huawei appointing him due to his vast industry experience.

Rake previously served BT Group as chairman between 2007 and 2017 and joins Huawei as a non-executive director.

Last month Rake warned the UK against restricting Huawei’s role in its 5G infrastructure after praising the “considerable progress” that has been made by the vendor.

Commenting on his new role, Rake said: “The importance of good communication infrastructure has never been more vital, as the Covid-19 crisis emphasises every day. We are all getting used to working and communicating in different ways in these difficult times and I am passionate about making sure everyone can get affordable, reliable and quick connections at home and at work.

“Huawei and its world leading technology is vital to that. At BT, I saw first-hand how Huawei worked with Britain’s leading operators to roll out broadband, 3G and 4G. I look forward to working with them again on the next generation of technology as the company extends its 20-year track record in the UK.”

Huawei vice president Victor Zhang has welcomed the appointment.

“Sir Michael brings a wealth of relevant experience to our boardroom and I look forward to working with him as we enter the next phase of our partnership with Britain. We’re working around the clock to keep the UK connected through the current crisis and bring affordable, reliable 5G to every corner of the country.”

Rake will carry out his role alongside fellow non-executive directors on the Huawei UK board, including Lord Browne of Madingley, Sir Kenneth Olisa and Sir Andrew Cahn.