Tampa telecommunications firm Syniverse restructures

Tampa-based telecommunications giant Syniverse is re-strategizing with a focus on innovative technology and shifting the team makeup.

As part of the reorganization to cut down on inefficiencies and redundancies, Syniverse is cutting 95 workers. The group has nearly 1,000 employees worldwide and 300 based in Tampa. 

While the company is eliminating positions, including roles in finance, marketing and product, Syniverse will also reduce its footprint in some geographies where it has a limited number of employees. 

Syniverse CEO Andrew Davies said while the firm embraces a hybrid work model, it does not plan to reduce its footprint in Tampa.

“We are always looking at ways to be better,” Davies said. “For me, change is a never-ending routine.” 

Syniverse CEO Andrew Davies. Image provided.

Syniverse is combining its carrier and enterprise business units into two new teams focused on revenue and product. Company executives envision the streamlined approach will improve customer centricity, reduce complexity and meet financial objectives.

John McRae, president of the carrier business unit, is stepping down in late September. 

The restructuring comes one year after San Francisco-based Twilio (NYSE: TWLO) completed a $750 million investment in Syniverse, allowing the firm to advance its technological capabilities.

“The strategy we have laid the foundation for over two-plus year is part of the transaction with Twilio. We are creating customer-facing, go-to-market and account management in our leadership organization and product development,” Davies said. 

Syniverse has made several key hires and is internally focusing on how it can further leverage new tech over its competitors. 

Davies said John Wick, the previous chief technology officer, will lead “all things in product strategy.” 

“We are about to embark on a new chapter of growth with the evolution of technology from 4G [fourth generation technology] to 5G and the rise of messaging. Our customers want more intelligent solutions to enable better security of data as people are roaming,” Davies said. “Today, we lead in our industry with having a blockchain solution in place for operators.” 

Syniverse’s customers include Verizon, Google, Amazon, Cisco and American Airlines. 

Other C-suite changes include the promotion of Harry Patz Jr., a longtime business executive, who now serves as the chief revenue officer. 

Syniverse also recently hired Sonia Sullivan as the chief information technology officer, Bill Sansalone as the CFO and Rachel Jackson as the senior VP of legal. The company is currently seeking a public relations and social media manager.