Sony Ericsson on tuesday announced the appointment of P Balaji as the managing director of the company''s India operations, effective from July 1, 2011.

In this role, Balaji will help in establishing Sony Ericsson's leadership position in the Android market and work closely with operators and distributors in India, the company said in a statement.

"Balaji has an excellent experience and understanding of the India telecommunications market. He will play a key role in Sony Ericsson's long term growth ambitions in the region, by bringing our Android-based Xperia smartphones to the Indian market and further strengthening relationships with local operators, retailers and consumers," Sony Ericsson Head of Region Asia Pacific Matthew Lang said.

Balaji joins Sony Ericsson from Ericsson India, having last held the role of Vice President - Business Development, Corporate Affairs and Communications. Previously, Balaji oversaw Marketing, Strategy and Technical Solutions for Ericsson India..

"With Sony Ericsson's strong brand, its Android-based Xperia smartphones, the company is poised to bring superior communication and entertainment experiences with the latest technology to the dynamic and passionate consumers of India. I am delighted to take this role at such an exciting phase of Sony Ericsson’s development," Balaji said.