Security vendor Data Encryption Systems (DES) has appointed a new business development manager to drive its data encryption product, DESlock, into the UK channel.

Tony Ross-Booker’s key focus will be to sign new partners and establish a UK distribution programme, which will be later extended into Europe. He joins DES from Sigma Software Distribution, where he was an external business development manager

Ross-Booker said: “I was attracted to the position because I genuinely believe in the product and what it has to offer. Data protection is a hot topic, meaning the general awareness of encryption has been heightened, and DESlock is uniquely positioned to take advantage of the current climate. Today, end-users are savvier about what they want and need from an encryption tool.”

DESlock allows users to encrypt the data on their system, rather than putting a blanket lock on it, which the vendor claims gives the end user more control.

“We are already in talks with a specialist security distributor that I think will make a big difference,” he added.

David Tomlinson, managing director of DES, said: “Up until this point, we have mainly operated with a direct sales model, but this is something we are keen to change moving forward.

“Our aim is that by the end of the year we will have a significant percentage of our sales for DESlock coming through the channel. Hiring Tony is a major part of this strategy. His knowledge and expertise in dealing with the channel will help to increase sales of DESlock.”