New Managing Director for SAP marks the company’s commitment to the region
Auckland, New Zealand — SAP Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) has announced the appointment of Ian Black to the role of Managing Director, SAP New Zealand. Ian was formerly Managing Director, SAP Philippines and Indo China and will report to Geraldine McBride, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, SAP ANZ.
“This appointment is an outcome of our intention to continue to deliver even stronger growth and financial performance in New Zealand. Ian has the leadership skills and experience that will allow us to continue to build a strong organisation centred around our customers’ needs,” said Geraldine McBride, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, SAP ANZ.
For Mr Black the appointment heralds a return to the New Zealand market. In 1994, he was SAP New Zealand’s first employee. In addition, the appointment marks the continuation of a working partnership with Geraldine McBride, who also joined SAP’s New Zealand operation in 1996 as Managing Director. In 1997 Mr Black moved to SAP Australia before becoming Managing Director of SAP Philippines and Indo China. Under his management he achieved increased marketshare to 60% and had the highest customer satisfaction rating for the region.
“Ian and I share the same desire to continue to drive SAP ANZ’s market leadership through a customer-centric approach,” said Ms McBride. “We will immediately benefit from his past expertise and experience in the ANZ business environment. Since 1994, Ian has continually proven himself to be an outstanding leader and motivator for the teams he has managed, creating best practices and processes. I am confident that Ian will make a strong contribution to SAP’s continued leadership position as the number one integrated business software provider in ANZ.”
Mr Black’s appointment follows the departure of Viv Gurrey who resigned during January 2003. Ms McBride said, “We wish Viv well and thank her for her contribution to SAP.”
For more information, (press only):
Jennifer Roach, +61 2 9935 4845, jennifer.roach@sap.com
