Samsung Electronics Australia’s vice president of telecommunications has departed the company, with the Australian subsidiary announcing the appointment of former Vodafone Group UK director Prasad Gokhale to the role.

Coming on as vice president of the telecommunications division in Australia, effective immediately, Gokhale will be responsible for telecommunications products across both the retail and business sectors.

In his previous role as director of terminals at Vodafone Group UK, Gokhale worked across a total of 13 markets in the Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East, directing the company’s mobile device procurement and portfolio management business. Prasad has also held a number of other positions at Vodafone, including leadership roles in Australia and Japan.

Speaking about the appointment was the managing director of Samsung Electronics Australia, SR Yoon:

Prasad has a proven global track record with the depth of experience required to move the Samsung telecommunications business forward. As a previous business partner he is already familiar with the Samsung operation in Australia and we believe his global perspective and leadership qualities will add another dimension to the business.

Gokhale added that he was excited to join the “dynamic” Samsung business, which he said had “attained a reputation for excellence” in the Australian market.

My initial focus will be to develop a deeper understanding of the team, our customers and their needs. I look forward to leveraging my experience from global markets to help develop solutions that meet the changing and growing expectations of partners and consumers. My main objective is that in addition to being Australia’s leading technology brand, we are also the most preferred brand of choice for our partners and consumers.

Gokhale replaces outgoing VP of telecommunications at Samsung, Tyler McGee, who joined the company in early 2009 from Nokia Japan.

During his time at Samsung, McGee oversaw the launch of a number of key products including the flagship Galaxy S4, the Note range of supersized smartphones and, more recently, Samsung’s foray into wearable technology with the Galaxy Gear.

In a statement today the company said, “Samsung appreciates the dedication that Tyler has displayed, and wishes him every success in his future endeavours”.

Featured image: This is the Samsung Galaxy S4 in a Cygnett protective case.