BlackBerry head of Vodafone channel sales quits to join O2

Wilkins takes up role at Telefonica managing Centre of Excellence partners

BlackBerry’s head of Vodafone channel sales Ian Wilkins has exited the company after more than nine years to take up a position at O2.

Wikins, who was responsible for channel strategy for BlackBerry for more than 350 Vodafone partners, left last month having held the position since November 2005.

He also managed a team of four channel managers and was in charge of incentives, partner events, training and managed the relationship between the manufacturer and the network. He also covered distribution, ISP (wholesale) and mobile partners.

O2 confirmed that Wilkins was joining the firm as channel business manager. “Ian is responsible for managing our Centre of Excellence accounts in the partner channel,” a spokesperson said.

Vodafone confirmed that it would be taking stock of the BlackBerry Passport, its enterprise-focused handset, which was launched last week.

BlackBerry had no word on a replacement for Wilkins saying it “does not comment on rumour or speculation”.