Optus has signed a significant deal to manage IBM's mobile fleet communications, retaining a major corporate client as Mobile Number Portability (MNP) is introduced.

Chris Hancock, Managing Director of Optus Business, said he was delighted that IBM was one of the first corporates to sign-up under MNP.

"With MNP the rules have changed. Now, when companies go to tender for their corporate mobile needs, they are no longer bound to their existing carrier."

"Clients like IBM can now put their communications out to competitive tender without losing their mobile numbers and all the issues that entails - including their stationary, corporate livery and directories."

Mr Hancock said Optus was ready to meet the new era of competition head-on.

"With MNP, it truly is a level playing field - and Optus thrives in a competitive environment."

"Our challenge under MNP is not only acquire new customers, but to actively maintain and grow our current customer base."

"In a more communications-savvy environment, we understand that business customers like IBM are demanding even better value."

"Customers look for a great deal, coverage, good account management and customer services, flexible billing and reporting techniques. And now they are free to find the best carrier to meet their needs," Mr Hancock said.

"In winning the IBM deal, Optus has retained the business of a very important client. We believe that our coverage, our billing strategy and our customised reporting solution played an important role in retaining this business," Mr Hancock said.

Optus will manage IBM's over 4,000-strong mobile fleet, one of the largest corporate fleets in Australia. The deal will also see IBM and Optus working together to increase the use of mobile data communications for IBM's workforce.

For more information:
Louise Ingram
Optus Public Affairs
Phone: 02 9342 5042