Windstream Gains Las Vegas, Sheds Staffers

Cloud computing/managed services provider Windstream Corp. has gone Las Vegas, offering businesses there such voice and data services as VoIP, SIP trunking, MPLS and dedicated high-speed Internet. ??

Windstream adds Vegas to its footprint that includes major markets throughout the Southwest, including Los Angeles, San Diego, Phoenix and Tucson.  The company also offers broadband, phone and digital TV services to consumers, primarily in rural areas.?

"Customers like to have choices when it comes to customized network solutions," notes Norm Kirch, regional director for Windstream in Las Vegas. "With more than 450,000 business customers nationwide, we have extensive experience working with companies of all sizes to provide them with the customized solutions they need to run their businesses as smoothly and efficiently as possible."??

In separate Windstream news,  Windstream is undergoing a management overhaul “to increase the efficiency of decision-making and position the company for continued?success,” it says.

As such, the company plans to cut between 375 and 400 management positions by the third quarter, translating into roughly 3 percent of its total workforce of 14,500. Windstream says these changes should result in annualized savings of approximately $30 million to $40 million. Severance benefits and outplacement assistance also will be provided to those staffers whose positions are being eliminated.

According to President/CEO Jeff Gardner, "Windstream has grown rapidly through acquisition, and it is crucial that our management structure be as simple and as responsive to customers as possible as we continue to build this company for long-term success.”??

He continues, "We began initial planning for this management review last December. It?will make us more competitive and improve our ability to continue growing while delivering the best possible experience to our customers as well as the greatest value to our shareholders.”?