Simon Roberts Appointed as Chief restructuring Officer at Vodafone

Published: 2025/11/29 07:05:46

Vodafone has appointed simon Roberts as its Chief Restructuring Officer, effective November 28, 2025. This strategic move comes as Vodafone navigates a challenging period marked by declining revenues and increased competition, and follows the declaration of significant job cuts as part of a broader restructuring plan. Roberts’ primary focus will be on streamlining operations and minimizing the impact of these changes on the workforce.

Background and Responsibilities

Simon Roberts brings extensive experience in leading large-scale organizational transformations. Prior to this appointment, he served as Executive Director at Alvarez & Marsal, a leading global professional services firm specializing in restructuring and turnaround management. Alvarez & Marsal has a strong track record of assisting companies in navigating complex financial and operational challenges.

As Chief Restructuring Officer, Roberts will report directly to Vodafone group Chief executive Margherita Della Valle. His key responsibilities include:

• Overseeing the implementation of Vodafone’s restructuring plan.
• Identifying and implementing cost-saving measures.
• Working with relevant stakeholders to minimize job losses.
• Facilitating redeployment opportunities for affected employees.
• Ensuring a smooth transition during the restructuring process.

Vodafone’s Restructuring Plan

Vodafone announced in May 2024 a plan to cut approximately 11,000 jobs across Europe over the next three years. Reuters reported that this decision was driven by the need to improve profitability and invest in growth areas such as network infrastructure and digital services. The restructuring aims to simplify Vodafone’s organizational structure and reduce operating costs.

The company is also exploring strategic partnerships and potential mergers and acquisitions to strengthen its position in key markets. In October 2025, Vodafone finalized the sale of its Italian business to Swisscom for €8.7 billion. Vodafone’s official press release details the completion of this significant transaction.

Impact on employees

Vodafone has emphasized its commitment to supporting affected employees throughout the restructuring process. The company is offering severance packages, outplacement services, and retraining programs to help employees find new employment opportunities. Roberts’ appointment signals a renewed focus on minimizing the impact of job losses and facilitating redeployment, as he stated in a Vodafone press release, hoped to play a role in minimising the number of job losses and facilitating redeployment.

Key Takeaways

• Simon Roberts has been appointed as Vodafone’s Chief Restructuring Officer.
• Roberts brings extensive experience in restructuring and turnaround management from Alvarez & Marsal.
• Vodafone is undergoing a significant restructuring plan involving approximately 11,000 job cuts.
• The restructuring aims to improve profitability and invest in growth areas.
• Vodafone is committed to supporting affected employees through severance packages and redeployment programs.

The appointment of Simon Roberts as Chief Restructuring officer represents a critical step in Vodafone’s efforts to navigate a challenging market habitat and secure its long-term future. His expertise will be instrumental in implementing the restructuring plan effectively and minimizing the impact on the workforce. The coming months will be crucial as Vodafone executes its strategy and adapts to the evolving telecommunications landscape.