Symantec crowns Brown as new CEO

Six-month search finally comes to an end

Symantec has given its interim chief executive Michael Brown the job permanently, ending a six-month search for a new leader.

The vendor ousted its former CEO Steve Bennett in March and handed the reins to Brown, who takes over permanently from today.

Brown will set out his strategic plan with shareholders, customers and staff within the next 30 days, the vendor said, adding that his strategy will build on the firm's existing objectives.

Symantec described its search for Bennett's replacement as "multistep" and the head of its board's CEO search David Mahoney said Brown had fought off strong competition.

"The board ran a robust and diligent global CEO search over the last six months, during which we received interest from world-class candidates, including current and former CEOs and technology leaders from successful public companies," he said.

"Mike went through this same rigorous process and distinguished himself among the candidates."

Symantec's board chairman Dan Schulman added that in his stint as interim CEO, Brown had brought "energy and intensity" to the company, which the firm expects to continue.

"Most importantly, he demonstrated vision and creativity as he has worked with the board and the management team to develop a strategic plan based on focused investment and innovation in key areas of high customer need," he said.

"With this appointment, the board looks forward to working with Mike to bring this vision to reality and to continue Symantec's momentum."