In a round of corporate musical chairs, telecommunications expert Graham Mitchell is to run Crown Fibre Holdings, while Ralph Chivers, the project's programme head, is taking charge of Telecom's lobbying.

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Crown Fibre Holdings (CFH) has been established to manage the Crown's $1.5 billion investment in ultra-fast broadband infrastructure over the next ten years.

Mr Mitchell has been working with venture capital and private equity clients in the technology sector for the past five years, having previously held senior roles at AAPT, Telecom and ECNZ.

“I am pleased that CFH has been able to attract a candidate of Mr Mitchell’s calibre,” CFH chairman Simon Allen said.

“His extensive experience in telecommunications, internet and media businesses, coupled with a strong track record of business success, make him a perfect fit for this highly strategic initiative.”

Mr Mitchell said he was delighted to be joining New Zealand’s most significant start-up infrastructure business.

“There is no doubt that broadband is transforming the way we do business, live our lives and function as communities. I am excited about the new opportunities that ultra-fast broadband will bring to New Zealand, and I look forward to having a hand in making it a reality,” he said.

Mr Allen indicated that the interest in the UFB initiative had been much stronger than anticipated.

“More than 40 companies have now indicated that they wish to participate, and we look forward to receiving their proposals early next year. Our focus will be on selecting partners who share the government’s vision for ultra-fast broadband, and who have the skill, resources and determination to ensure our joint investments are a success.”

Mr Mitchell will be based in Auckland and will commence work in January 2010.