Trend Micro opens up over UK overhaul

Security vendor begins 2012 with new UK boss and management team and stresses that staff consultation process is not about cutting headcount

Trend Micro has unveiled a new UK boss and management team as it kicks off a wider reorganisation of its UK business.

The security vendor informed partners on Thursday that the UK will now be run by one of its global vice presidents, Wael Mohamed.

A wider management shuffle has also taken place, with former UK channel director Gavin Lyons leaving the company. Lyons' role will be filled by newcomer Tim Ayling, while Trend's former EMEA alliances director Simon Young has been brought in to lead the UK enterprise business. Andy Dancer (pictured), who wrote last week's email to partners, will continue in the role of UK chief technology officer.

Trend has also begun a wider staff consultation process as it seeks to refocus on customer segments that will yield the highest growth in 2012.

EMEA managing director Tony Larks stressed that the reorganisation was not about cutting UK headcount.

"Like with any reorganisation, a number of people have been put at risk but they are able to reapply for new roles in the new organisation," he told ChannelWeb.

"Overall, the UK will employ more people going into this year than last. It is just that the roles will be in different areas."

Larks said the organisational changes dovetail with Trend Micro's new metal-based partner programme, which goes live today. It puts a greater emphasis on partner specialisation and the enterprise segment.

Larks said Mohamed's arrival would give the UK more prestige in the wider company. Mohamed joined Trend Micro in 2009 through its acquisition of Third Brigade and currently holds the position of senior vice president, global strategic alliances and business development. He will take on the UK as an additional responsibility.

Larks added; "Many of the firms in our industry struggled for growth last year whereas we did very well. But with the new year, it is natural to look at where we can grow further."

Rob Gupta, managing director of Trend Micro Gold partner Secon, said he was waiting to hear more details.

"As far as I understand it, this is not about making cutbacks but about taking the business forward," he said. "Trend are realigning the business and this should be good for the marketplace and partners."