Qwest Reorganizes, Plans Expansion of Sales Force

Qwest Communications International Inc. is reorganizing its business market units to expand its focus on large global and national accounts, including government customers, the company announced Oct. 1.

A major marketing and sales campaign targeted at these accounts will begin in November.

Joel Arnold, executive vice president of global business markets, has been named executive vice president of global accounts. He will be responsible for the company's pursuit of the 1,000 largest global accounts as defined by communications spending in North America and Western Europe.

Cliff Holtz, executive vice president of small business markets, was named executive vice president of national business accounts. He will lead the focus on U.S.-based business accounts excluding the 1,000 global accounts. The new organizations collectively will add 1,000 sales people.

James Payne, senior vice president of the government systems division, is now leading the company's public-sector unit, adding state and educational services to his responsibilities.

Payne said the business climate is ripe for the company's aggressive expansion, particularly in light of the rumors that AT&T Corp. may be looking to sell its long-distance business.

"One industry player has decided to [reshuffle] the deck and get out of the game," Payne said, indicating new opportunities for those ready to pursue them.