Vodafone today announced a reorganisation of its European leadership structure, including the departure of chief executive for the region, Philipp Humm (pictured).

The move follows ongoing speculation that Vodafone’s European operations could be broken up if a deal emerges with US cable operator Liberty Global.

As part of the changes, chief executives of Vodafone’s four largest European markets – Hannes Ametsreiter in Germany, Aldo Bisio in Italy, Jeroen Hoencamp in the UK and Antonio Coimbra in Spain – will become members of the group’s executive committee and report directly to group CEO Vittorio Colao, effective from 1 October.

Rob Shuter, chief executive of Vodafone Netherlands, completes the line-up and will assume additional leadership responsibilities for Vodafone’s smaller markets.

“These changes will simplify and streamline the management of our largest European markets and accelerate our strategic plans in those countries,” said Colao in a statement.

The re-jig seemingly leaves no room for Humm, who will leave the company “later in the year to continue his CEO career outside Vodafone”.

Colao thanked Humm for his “significant contribution to Vodafone”, and pointed to his integral role in “the recovery of our European businesses “ through acquiring and integrating Ono in Spain, Kabel Deutschland in Germany and Cable & Wireless in the UK.

“I fully understand his desire to pursue his career ambitions outside Vodafone in light of the new organisation and wish him all the best for the future,” added Colao.

Vodafone confirmed there will be no changes to the leadership structure for the group’s operations in Africa, Middle East and Asia-Pacific.