LONDON -- Level 3 Communications' European Markets Group today announced the appointment of James Heard, who joins the company as managing director of Level 3's European region. James joins Level 3 from BT Plc and will assume responsibility for overseeing all operations of the Group, reporting to Brady Rafuse, president and CEO of Level 3's European Markets. Additionally, Uwe M. Nickl has changed his role, and now leads the product delivery, offer management and marketing functions for Europe. Uwe will assume management responsibility for the development and marketing of all Level 3 products in the region, reporting to James Heard.

As part of its growth strategy in Europe, Level 3 is broadening and strengthening its management team, drawing on sector expertise and regional experience. "The addition of James Heard to the management team and the change in role for Uwe Nickl will aid the ongoing expansion of the European Markets Group, in line with an ever-increasing demand for Level 3's services," said Rafuse.

James Heard brings extensive industry experience to Level 3's European team, having served ten years at BT Plc. During his time there, James held a number of senior management positions. Most recently James was general manager, responsible for one of BT's largest customers and part of the senior management team responsible for the transformation of BT's UK Global Services.

Prior to his new appointment, Uwe held the position of managing director for Level 3 Communications GmbH, responsible for all business operations in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Central and Eastern Europe. He has been with Level 3 Communications GmbH since April 1999, and during his time with the company has also headed up Corporate Development and Marketing in the German region.

"Level 3 is committed to expanding its product and service offering in Europe," said Rafuse. "We have had great success in Europe to date and with Uwe's appointment I am confident we will continue to meet the growing demand that we see for our services across our expanded regional footprint.

Level 3 Communications Inc. (NYSE: LVLT)