Sol sent packing six weeks early

Telstra CEO Sol Trujillo has jetted back to the United States some six weeks earlier than anticipated.

The American executive originally announced his resignation for June 30, but a statement released today by Telstra said the appointment of ten-year Telstra veteran David Thodey to the CEO position expedited Trujillo's departure.

"The appointment of an internal candidate as the new CEO meant a smooth and swift transition was possible," the company said.

A spokesperson for Telstra said Trujillo has met his contractual obligations with the company.

Nonetheless, Trujillo's departure must have caught the telco somewhat unawares, as Telstra is yet to finalise its contract with Thodey to take up the CEO position.

Thodey's appointment will see Nerida Caesar promoted twice within the space of two months.

Caesar was appointed group managing director of Telstra Wholesale in late March, but will now step back into a Government and customer facing role, replacing Thodey as group managing director of Telstra's Enterprise business.

Caesar's barely-warmed chair as GMD of Telstra Wholesale will be left to Glenn Osborne.