Bell Canada president Cope named to head privatized BCE

BCE's new chief executive will be telecom veteran George Cope, thecurrent president ofBell Canada and a former executive at Telus.

Cope's selection was announced Wednesday by BCE's new ownership team a private investor groupled by the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan.

Cope joined Bell Canada in 2005 as the company's president and chief operating officer.

Before that, hewas CEO of Telus Mobility for five years. He joined Telus in 2000 when it acquired thewireless carrier Clearnet Communications. Cope had been Clearnet'sCEO since 1987.

"We have a strong market position and compelling opportunities for profitable growth," Cope said in a release. "We will continue adding to our innovative suite of residential and business communications services while focusing on providing all our customers with the highest quality service."

An investment group led by the Ontario Teachers' Pension Fundoffered $51.7 billion for BCE in June.

Current BCE chief executive Michael Sabia announced last month that he would step down once the telecom giant is privatized.

Sabia had kind words for his colleague and former competitor.

"Throughout his career George has demonstrated a deep understanding of the telecom market and evolving customer needs. We have worked to simplify and strengthen Bell's core business, delivering significant economic value to our shareholders," he said.

The takeover deal is expected to close in the first quarter of next year, pending approvals from regulators.

BCE shareholders approved the takeover last month by an overwhelming margin.