SYDNEY: Telstra CEO Andy Penn has led tributes to Stuart Lee, pictured, a retired 45-year veteran of the telco who passed away on Wednesday.

Penn said Telstra had lost one of its stalwarts and Australia one of its telecommunication industry giants.

“Stuart was a leader, a friend and mentor to many and I count myself as one who benefited from his wise counsel, support and keen business sense,” Penn said.

Lee would be “well remembered for his huge intellect and deep care for people, progress, Telstra and telecommunications in Australia,” Penn added.

Stuart retired from Telstra in November 2016 after 45 years of continuous service. His career spanned 20 different roles, starting as a cadet engineer and finishing as group executive.