Juniper banks on Barclays man Kheradpir for CEO role

Networking and security player brings in ex-Verizon man to replace outgoing chief Johnson

Juniper Networks has nabbed Barclays exec Shaygan Kheradpir as its new chief executive to replace the retiring Kevin Johnson.

The new boss, who currently holds a role as chief operations and technology officer at the bank, will take the reins of the networking and security vendor from 1 January. He takes over from former Microsoft man Johnson, who has held the role for more than five years. Johnson will remain part of a boardroom set-up that will be bolstered by the addition of his successor.

"Juniper Networks delivers innovations that are transforming the way people interact, conduct business, and connect as a global community," said Kheradpir. "I am honoured to lead this visionary organisation and look forward to working with this group of dedicated and talented professionals to drive the next phase of the company's growth."

Prior to joining Barclays in 2011, Kheradpir held a variety of senior posts at Verizon, having been a member of the founding management team of the communications firm. Scott Kriens, chairman of the Juniper board, claimed the vendor had appointed the new boss following "a comprehensive search process".

"Shaygan has a proven track record of successful business operations and technology leadership, with industry knowledge and technical vision from the perspectives of both telecommunications service providers and global enterprises," he added. "Most importantly, Shaygan's values and vision for the company align very tightly with our own, building a strong foundation for Juniper's future."