Symantec poaches Check Point's UK boss

CRN understands Keith Bird is preparing to take up role as Symantec's vice president of northern Europe

Keith Bird has left his job as Check Point's UK boss for a top job at rival Symantec, CRN has learned.

According to multiple sources, Bird formally left Check Point last week and will begin his role as vice president of UK and northern Europe at Symantec next Monday.

Although Check Point is now a $1.5bn-revenue company, Symantec remains larger still – even after splitting off its storage products into a separate arm on 1 April – with a turnover of about $4bn (£2.6bn).

It is understood Bird resigned four weeks ago. But because Check Point does not see Symantec as among its fiercest rivals, he was able to stay on and perform a controlled exit and his last day was last Wednesday.

Former SonicWall EMEA boss Bird joined Check Point in October 2013 just as the network security giant opened a new HQ in central London.

One partner commented that Bird made a "big contribution" to Check Point and that there is now "a lot more structure in their approach".

"The London base has brought them closer to their partners, which is a good thing," added the partner, who wished to remain anonymous.

Jon Busfield, managing director of Check Point partner Cygnia, added: "He really improved the channel side. There was a bit of conflict between partner channel managers and direct-touch people and he sorted that out – things seem much better now."

Check Point confirmed that the UK will be run by local executives Mike Wakefield, who is head of channels, and Will Benton, who is director of commercial sales, while Bird's successor is sought. Both men will report directly to Bruno Darmon, vice president of European sales.

Busfield added: "Mike is a fantastic guy so it's in really safe hands while they look for a successor."

Bird could not be reached for comment.