Websense hunts for new UK boss as Ahmed departs

Atif Ahmed rumoured to have taken job at Appsense

Websense's UK boss is leaving for a role at virtualisation vendor Appsense, according to channel whispers.

Atif Ahmed is understood to be relinquishing the role of vice president sales, UK, Ireland & Benelux after just 10 months in the hotseat. According to multiple sources he is joining Appsense, although both vendors were unavailable to comment as this story went to press.

The security vendor is apparently already hunting for his replacement and is understood to have sounded out a range of potential candidates including Neal Lillywhite, who recently left NTT Com Security, and Check Point UK boss Keith Bird.

When asked for comment, Bird said it was usual for someone in his role to be approached but that he is "very happy" at Check Point.

Ahmed's departure comes at a time of change for Websense following its $907m buyout by Vista Equity Partners last summer.

In February, Websense took the decision to move its headquarters from San Diego to Austin, Texas, which chief executive John McCormack claimed was "quickly becoming a technology hub with an invigorating quality of life".

One Websense partner we spoke claimed Websense was back on its game following a period of turbulence.

"The move to Texas has caused a lot of upheaval but we have seen a proper change in direction from them in the last six weeks," they said. "They are pushing professional services back to the channel and that is very positive for us."