Brightstar appoints Baxendale as UK MD

Former 20:20 sales chief Richard Baxendale has replaced Christina Meade as Brightstar UK managing director.

Mobile News understands that Meade has stepped into a European business development role to make way for Baxendale, who previously worked with Brightstar Europe president Rod Millar at 20:20.

Meade is understood to have switched to a European role, following a slow start for the UK distribution arm, a joint venture with Tech Data through its UK subsidiary Computer 2000. She is expected to engage with manufacturers and dealers on the continent.

Baxendale, who quit 20:20 in March, will oversee the continued recruitment of senior UK staff for Brightstar’s management and sales team.

Millar has assumed full control for all European operations.

The appointments are expected to be confirmed next week. Brightstar was unavailable for comment.