Softcat completes top management rejig

New managing director Colin Brown takes the helm officially today as predecessor Hellawell becomes chairman

Newly appointed Softcat managing director Colin Brown takes on his role officially today after "passing his trial period with flying colours".

The former Computacenter Germany boss (pictured) was announced as the successor to outgoing managing director Martin Hellawell, who will move into the chairman role officially today.

Hellawell takes over from retired chairman and founder Peter Kelly, who left last summer but remains part of the company.

On Kelly's departure, Softcat announced that Brown, who joined the VAR as deputy managing director on 1 November, would take over from Hellawell within a three to six-month period, but has assumed the role after just two.

Speaking at the time of Brown's appointment, Hellawell said he would remain a hands-on boss with the help of Brown, whom he described as a "solid guy".

In an email sent to Softcat staff today, Hellawell said Brown has surpassed his already high expectations.

He said: "I am pleased to confirm that he has passed that trial with flying colours. On a personal note I am delighted with the way that Colin has risen to the challenge. From previous experience and reputation, I knew he had the capability and thought he was an excellent cultural match, but the way he has fitted in has surpassed my very high expectations."

Hellawell added that Brown is charged with the task of making Softcat a better place to work, driving growth and customer satisfaction and improving everything Softcat does.

Speaking about his new role, Hellawell added: "I'm in charge of making sure the business and Colin stay on track, of ensuring we make the right strategic moves for the company and for our third-party relationships, notably with key vendors."