EasyGroup’s rated head of legal Della Burnside has quit to become commercial legal director at mobile telecoms industry group the GSM Association (GSMA).

Burnside spent three and a half years as head of legal at easyGroup, joining in 2003 from the London office of Altheimer & Gray.

During this time she advised on the launch of easyMobile. Her experiences in the telecoms sector helped pave the way for her move to the GSMA.

Burnside said she was looking for a change in practice focus. At easyGroup she handled IP matters, but wanted a more commercial role.

Burnside said: “I was introduced to the mobile telecoms sector through my involvement in the launch of easyMobile. It’s a dynamic and fast-moving industry and I look forward to having a wider, more commercial role at the GSMA.”

EasyGroup is unlikely to hunt for a successor for the time being. The company is thinking of merging Burnside’s role with that of Anthony Robb-John’s, who was recently appointed managing director for brand holding company easyGroup IP.

A spokesperson for easyGroup said: “Anthony has an IP background and he joins us in December, so he should be well placed to assess our needs.”

Robb-John will report directly to easyGroup founder Stelios Haji-Ioannou and will be responsible for all IP matters.

EasyGroup’s tough stance on brand protection will not change. “The company will continue to promote and protect its brand,” said the spokesperson.

The timing of the move is not ideal. The company has a High Court trademark battle looming with telecoms rival Orange over the use of its orange-coloured branding in mid-November.