Islamabad 6 August: Telenor Pakistan announced that Fridtjof Rusten will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) effective September 1, 2025, succeeding Khurrum Ashfaque, who will transition to a new leadership position within the Telenor Group.
Rusten, with over 23 years of experience in Telenor’s Asian operations, previously served as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Telenor Pakistan from 2020 to 2023 and most recently held the role of Chief Transformation Officer at True Corporation in Thailand, overseeing the merger of dtac and True.
Marius Gigernes, Chair of Telenor Pakistan’s Board, praised Rusten’s appointment, stating, “Fridtjof’s extensive experience and proven leadership as CFO make him the ideal choice to steer Telenor Pakistan forward. His strategic vision drove significant transformation during his earlier tenure.” Gigernes also thanked Ashfaque for his contributions, highlighting Telenor Pakistan’s strong talent pipeline, which continues to produce leaders for the group’s global operations.
Rusten expressed enthusiasm about his return, saying, “I’m thrilled to rejoin Telenor Pakistan and work with its talented team. My focus will be on fostering innovation and empowerment to shape Pakistan’s digital future.” Ashfaque reflected on his two-year tenure, noting, “Leading Telenor Pakistan has been a privilege. I’m confident Fridtjof will continue to drive impactful change.”
READ MORE: CCP Greenlights PTCL-Telenor Merger With New Conditions
The leadership change coincides with ongoing scrutiny of Telenor Pakistan’s proposed acquisition by Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL). On August 5, 2025, the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) sought additional details from PTCL regarding the acquisition of 100% shareholding in Telenor Pakistan (Private) Limited and Orion Towers (Private) Limited.
PTCL presented its business plan and operational efficiencies during a CCP briefing, but further clarifications were requested to ensure regulatory compliance. The deal, if approved, could reshape Pakistan’s telecom landscape, with Telenor Pakistan serving over 45 million subscribers.
