BT Business appoints Jon James as new CEO

Jon James has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of BT Business, a division of BT Group, effective 3 March 2025.

James joins BT from the Danish telecommunications company Nuuday, where he served as CEO from 2021 to 2024, successfully overseeing its transformation and subsequent growth. His appointment at BT comes as the company refocuses its Business division on the UK market.

Allison Kirkby, speaking on the appointment, said: "I'm delighted to welcome Jon to BT, and to be working with him again. Jon's considerable experience from the UK and European telecoms markets, together with his track record in leading businesses through transformation, will be hugely valuable as we fully focus BT Business on the UK."

Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Jon James stated: "I am excited and honoured to join BT as CEO of BT Business, the UK's leader in B2B telecoms. BT Business has an unbeatable combination of deep customer relationships and world-class technology expertise, and I am looking forward to working with Allison, Bas and the BT Business team as we build an even stronger asset for our customers, our shareholders and for the UK."

The strategic focus on the UK market follows BT's earlier announcement during this financial year regarding its intention to optimise its international operations. This includes exploring potential partnerships aimed at enhancing its UK-centric approach.

Bas Burger, the current CEO of Business, will now concentrate exclusively on streamlining BT's international operations and exploring future options for the unit. This change enables Burger to fully dedicate his time to the international side of the business.

Allison Kirkby acknowledged Bas Burger's contribution, saying: "I'd like to thank Bas for his leadership of BT Business. His extensive knowledge of the telecoms market for multinational corporations and deep relationships with key partners, vendors and customers will be invaluable as we progress with options for our international business."

Jon James brings with him nearly three decades of experience in the European Telecommunications, Media, and Technology (TMT) sector. His career includes senior leadership roles, such as CEO of Tele2 Netherlands and Chief Operating Officer at Swedish cable operator Com Hem. Additionally, he has engaged with leading private equity houses and held senior roles at Virgin Media.

James, a UK national, is also known for his work outside the corporate sector as the co-founder of Space2Grow, a charity that supports local families. He is married and has two children.