Berard has spent 15 years in the international telecoms arena working for companies including communications specialist Alcatel and the telecoms division of IT consulting group, Devoteam. He will combine his experience with AwayPhone's global mobile services expertise and technically sophisticated products to develop MVNO relationships with mobile operators and other MVNOs across the globe. Partner organisations will be able to offer seamless mobile roaming services and establish additional revenue streams, which in turn enables AwayPhone to increase its own income through growing its customer base.
Sherry Madera, CEO of AwayPhone comments: “AwayPhone’s unique business model is based on attaining MVNO relationships to in turn expand our subscriber base. We offer a straightforward way for organisations to increase inbound traveller revenues and enhance their international mobile offerings. Philippe's in-depth market knowledge and extensive contacts will ensure AwayPhone's services are widely accessible and implemented. He is a valuable addition to the management team.”
Berard confirms: “Since meeting AwayPhone at its inception, I believed it had a business proposition that was unique within the mobile market. The recent acquisition of GlobalFon fosters our worldwide presence. This, combined with our commitment to using the most flexible wireless technology, helps to attract ambitious MVNO’s to partner with AwayPhone to drive additional revenue. AwayPhone ensures that people who use their mobile phones abroad can be confident of a high quality service without running up extortionate telephone bills. I am looking forward to my role at AwayPhone – a company with a mission to revolutionise roaming.”
AwayPhone launched its first product in autumn 2006 with the objective of providing international mobile services denied by major operators. Customers can save up to 90 percent on international calls and are given a local number in the region visited to assist with building business relationships. In October 2007 it announced its acquisition of US-based GlobalFon, a move which strengthens the company's global reach and broadens its partner channel.