Tech Bytes: Alltel Adds a Layer Of Bank Liaison Staff

Alltel Information Services Inc. has created a new layer of management to expand relationships with its outsourcing customers.

Alltel has created eight directorships and staffed them with employees whose short-term goal is expanding service contracts with 30 U.S.-based banks that use Alltel for limited outsourcing services.

The directors act as liaisons between Alltel's sales and operations staffs, coordinating contacts with banks' senior management.

The move frees top Alltel executives to focus on developing business strategies, said Collins Andrews, president of Alltel's U.S. commercial banking.

"It will help us do a better job of dealing with senior-level bankers," said Mr. Andrews. "It's targeted relationship building."

The new directors in U.S. commercial banking all were shifted from within the company. They are:

*Ronald Dennis, former western regional sales manager.

*Hunter Gammill, a founder of Alltel's predecessor, Systematics Inc.

*Gary Harrell, former sales manager.

*Gary Parisi, former vice president of outsourcing/software sales.

*Michael Saint, former vice president of outsourcing sales.

*Dhale Simpson, former manager of major accounts for Alltel's global financial division.

*Richard Wallace, former vice president and customer relations executive.

*Michael Whitacre, financial services outsourcing.