Hamada lavishes praise on outgoing Magirus boss

Avnet chief executive pays tribute to 'astute businessman' and 'personal friend' as Fabian von Kuenheim heads for exit doors

Avnet chief executive Rick Hamada has delivered a glowing tribute to his counterpart at Magirus, Fabian von Kuenheim, as he rides off into the sunset.

Although von Kuenheim (pictured) stepped down from day-to-day involvement in Magirus last October following his firm's acquisition by Avnet, he retained his role as chief executive and stayed on to help with the integration process.

The Magirus brand name was retired in January and von Kuenheim is now leaving to "pursue new entrepreneurial challenges", Avnet announced this morning. He will continue to provide advisory support until September.

Von Kuenheim joined €530m-turnover outfit Magirus in 1988, seven years after the Stuttgart-based VAD was founded.

Hamada's comments on his outgoing opposition number departed from the usual clipped pleasantries as he paid tribute to an "astute businessman" and "personal friend" whom he had known for more than a decade.

"Over his long years at the helm of Magirus he always maintained the company's position to be in touch with the pulse of the market, and he actively promoted a proud culture and philosophy around the vision of being a truly innovative service provider," he said.

"I wish to thank him in particular for the successful transition of the Magirus Group into our EMEA business in the period since October 2012. His lasting contributions will ensure that this excellent foundation of the Magirus Group will continue to impact our industry as part of the bright future for Avnet Technology Solutions."

Graeme Watt, president of Avnet Technology Solutions, EMEA, concurred: "I would like to place on record my thanks and gratitude to Fabian von Kuenheim for everything he has contributed in the short time we have worked together, and I wish him every success in the future."

Von Kuenheim added: "On 31 March 2013, to the day, it was 25 years since I dedicated myself to the successful development and leadership of Magirus. This was only possible due to the huge support of those within the company in tandem with our customers, partners, vendors and shareholders.

"My special thanks go to our brilliant employees, all of whom created and embodied our culture, team spirit, ingenuity and understanding of the different nuances of the EMEA market. I look back with pride on what has been created at Magirus, which is now entering a new, successful phase in its development as part of Avnet."

Eponymous founder and chief operating officer Christian Magirus is staying on at Avnet as vice president of services.