Hitachi creates high-level technology roles

Positions form part of company's strategy to boost uptake of cloud-based services in the UK

New technology recruits will help clients integrate cloud into their infrastructure

Hitachi Data Systems has created two new high-level technology roles as it looks to boost uptake of its cloud-based services in the UK.

The senior-level reorganisation has resulted in the creation of the roles of chief technology director and chief technology officer, as well as the appointment of a new global solutions services director for the UK, as part of what the company describes as a “three-pronged customer focus.”

Former solutions consultant Francois Zimmerman will assume the role of chief technology officer for the UK, with a focus on translating global Hitachi Data Systems strategy for the UK market. He will also be responsible for developing early adopter pilot projects to allow customers to influence product development.

Tony Reid, formerly UK services director and a 20-year veteran at the company, has been appointed chief technology director. Despite his technology-sounding brief, Reid will be responsible for managing the UK sales teams. "It is vital that we continue to engage customers at a deep level to ensure they achieve their objectives and cost savings," he said in a statement.

The company has also appointed Russell Hill as global solutions services (GSS) director for the UK, responsible for developing the country's GSS business and engaging with customers in the early stages of the sales cycle.

Steve Murphy, managing director UK, said the reorganisation in the UK would allow Hitachi Data Systems to develop services in conjunction with clients and partners that relate specifically to their individual business goals.

“By continuing to develop solutions such as the Unified Compute Platform and storage-as-a-service, Hitachi Data Systems helps customers to fully integrate cloud into their IT infrastructure at a pace that suits them," Murphy said in a statement.