Ex BT and Microsoft exec joins Cancom as Ireland boss

Peter Russell to integrate and lead German reseller’s Novosco operations in Ireland the Northern Ireland

Cancom has announced Peter Russell will be its new MD of Ireland and Northern Ireland in the New Year.

The former Ireland rugby international and Microsoft veteran will take the lead on integrating Cancom's Northern and Republic of Ireland operations following its acquisition of Novosco last year.

Cancom claims it will complete the rebrand of Novosco to Cancom in January.

Russell has most recently held the position of managing director of digital services firm Neueda. He will start his role as of 1 January 2021, taking over from John Lennon.

Cancom says Lennon will leave the business in the first quarter of next year, having led the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland operations since Novosco was acquired.

Cancom's purchase of the Belfast-HQ service provider for £70m in October 2019 was one of the EMEA channel's biggest M&A deals last year.

The public sector reseller had a headcount of 300 and specialised in NHS, housing association and charity sector customers.

At the time, Cancom said the deal would add new vertical expertise, saying there was little customer overlap between the two companies.

Russell said he will be "build a new vision and strategic plan for Cancom", helped by Patrick McAliskey who is set to continue in his role as strategic advisor, to "ensure continuity across the operations" for customers.

"It is an incredibly exciting time to be taking on this new role. Novosco was a business I long admired and its acquisition by Cancom places us in a fantastic position to further grow on the island of Ireland," he said.

"My key focus will be on maximising the opportunities that the integration provides and on making sure Cancom continues to be a fantastic place to work."

Cancom UK&I MD Martin Hess said Russell will be tasked with achieving "significant future growth".

"I also want to pay tribute to John Lennon for his incredible contribution to Novosco and his hard work and dedication in supporting the successful integration process since Cancom acquired Novosco last year.

"We wish him every good wish in his future endeavours".