Tech Data launches global mobility unit

Former Europe-based exec to spearhead strategic worldwide market decisions

Tech Data is elevating its position in the burgeoning global mobile technology market with the creation of Tech Data Mobile Solutions, a new global unit that will develop and coordinate strategic planning, operations and go-to-market strategies around the world.

Leading the new business unit is Rod Millar, a Tech Data veteran who previously served as president of Tech Data Mobile in Europe and has extensive experience in the European telecommunications industry.

Millar, the unit's senior vice president, will report to Nestor Cano, president of Tech Data Europe, and Joe Quaglia, president, of Tech Data Americas.

"Mobile products and solutions continue to be a strategic focus for Tech Data throughout our worldwide operations," said Bob Dutkowsky, chief executive officer at Tech Data.

"Over the past seven years, Millar has been instrumental in the growth and development of Tech Data Mobile, our European mobile business. This new organisational structure further solidifies our commitment to the growing mobile space and better aligns our resources to this important component of our company strategy."

Supporting Millar is Heather Murray, who was instrumental in the formation of TDMobility, the distributors existing US mobile unit, including the recruitment and enablement of resellers to the mobile programme. In her new role, Murray will oversee sales, marketing and operations of the global mobile unit.

The consolidation of Tech Data's mobile strategy and operations probably anticipates continued expansion and evolution in mobile technology, inclusive of devices, carrier services, applications and support functions.

While PC sales continue to decline, mobile devices - such as tablets, smartphones and embedded devices - continue to see sales expand.

Tech Data was a pioneer in the channel's mobile market; its TDMobility unit bridged the divide between resellers and carriers, making it easier for solution providers to broker transport services when selling mobile devices.

Likewise, it facilitated programmes that recruited and enabled software developers to write applications specifically for mobile devices.

Mobile technology isn't only attractive to Tech Data. Rival distributors such as Ingram Micro and Synnex also have robust and growing mobile technology practices.

All distributors are expanding their mobile practices beyond warehousing and logistical support of products to retailers and resellers.

The consolidation of Tech Data's management reflects how mobile technology is a global phenomenon and will remain a growth catalyst for the foreseeable future.

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