Maxima calls in the big guns

VAR appoints channel veteran Ian Smith as non-executive director

Channel stalwart Ian Smith has been appointed to the board of VAR Maxima as non-executive director.

Maxima took itself off the market last week, citing market pressures as the main reason for its decision.

The Microsoft, SAP, Citrix and IBM partner has launched a strategic review of the business. It said this could result in a sale of all or part of the company.

In August, the firm was reported to be locked in talks with a mystery suitor as it posted pre-tax losses of £9m on declining sales of £45.7m.

Smith, who has more than 20 years' experience in the IT and communications services sector, has held senior positions at Cisco, Foundry, Cable & Wireless as well as executive positions at a number of VARs, including Redstone, Xploite, Calyx and Matrix.

Kelvin Harrison, chairman of Maxima, said: "I am pleased to welcome Ian Smith to the board of Maxima. His knowledge and experience will be a valuable asset through the process of completing our strategic review and beyond."