Mumbai based telecom operator Loop Mobile (formerly BPL Mobile) has roped in XCEL Telecom executive Sandip Basu on board as CEO. Basu replaces Sanjeev Chachondia who quit Loop Mobile recently. Basu has worked with BPL Mobile in various capacities from 1997 to 2005.
Basu will be responsible for the national launch of Loop Telecom and further strengthen the position of Loop Mobile in Mumbai. Loop Telecom has received license to start GSM operations in 21 telecom circles in India and has received spectrum for 20 circles. It has also launched pan-India operations under Loop Mobile in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala and Orissa and launched GSM operations in these four states.
Loop Mobile came into existence after the recent brand change exercise of BPL Mobile Communication in March 2009, following the expiry of its brand-use agreement with the TPG Nambiar-owned BPL Group. It currently has over 2.5 million subscribers in India.
At XCEL, Basu was MD & CEO and was responsible for building the brand in the passive infrastructure provider space in India. XCEL, which was completely owned by hedge fund Q Investments, was sold to American Tower Corporation earlier this year.
Basu's last role at BPL Mobile was Executive Director and CEO. He has also worked with Fascel Limited, Bharti Telecom and Apollo Tyres. He is a Chartered & Cost Accountant and a commerce graduate from Delhi University.
