Colao steps down as Vodafone chief (2)

(ANSA) - Milan, May 15 - Italian executive Vittorio Colao is stepping down as CEO of Vodafone after 10 years at the helm, the telecommunications giant announced in a statement on Tuesday.
    He will be replaced by CFO Nick Read.
    "It was my decision," Colao told analysts.
    "We are writing a new chapter in our story and it's a very healthy to have a team dedicated to this.
    "I am very happy that the board has chosen Nick (Read as my successor). He's an exceptional person".