Telefónica O2 UK names new legal chief

Smith’s new role follows the appointment of Kate Jarvis, Telefónica Europe’s director of legal and regulatory affairs, to the company’s board earlier this year.

Smith, who assumes responsibility for managing the telecoms company’s UK legal support and the realignment of its legal team, will report to Jarvis.

“We’re delighted to have someone of Ed’s calibre leading our legal team,” said Jarvis. “Ed will lead the legal team in supporting not only the core business, but also our other operating businesses like Be, Manx, JAJAH and giffgaff.”

Spanish telecoms giant Telefónica acquired UK mobile operator O2 for £17.7bn in March 2006, a deal that saw Simmons & Simmons advise Telefónica alongside Clifford Chance and Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer advise O2.