IBM has today announced the appointment of David Hook as the new country leader for IBM New Zealand, taking on the role vacated by Mike Smith, who retires today after being at the helm since 2016.

Hook has more than a decade of experience in the technology industry, affording him a ‘deep understanding' of the New Zealand business and technology sectors, says IBM.

Joining IBM last year, Hook moves into the role from his previous stint as head of sales for the company's global markets division. In his new role, he will be responsible for all business operations in IBM New Zealand.

“We are currently seeing an unprecedented shift to digital ways of living and working due to COVID-19,” says Hook.

“While this pandemic has created challenges, it is also creating opportunities that IBM is unlocking for many New Zealand organisations through the adoption of hybrid cloud and AI.

“It is a privilege to lead the IBM New Zealand team, and to work closely with our clients to help them accelerate their digital transformations."

Previously, David held sales director roles for Fujitsu New Zealand and Westcon-Comstor across New Zealand and Australia.

“David is a strong and focussed leader with a passion for delivering meaningful solutions to our clients,” says IBM managing director for Australia and New Zealand Katrina Troughton.

“He is committed to building on the trust our clients have in us and our technology, and investing in our people at IBM, so they can continue to succeed.

“I would also like to thank Mike for his significant contribution to IBM New Zealand and the broader technology sector through his work championing digital skills and gender diversity and inclusion,“ says Troughton.

“It has been a pleasure working with him and I wish him the very best for his retirement.

In a post on his LinkedIn page, outgoing NZ country leader Mike Smith says he is proud of his accomplishments at the company.

“Yesterday I announced I have made the decision to stop working full time and as a result will be finishing with IBM New Zealand at the end of 2020,” wrote Smith.

“Over the last 4 years I have loved working with the team at IBM — thank you all for everything you do!

“We've helped a number of organisations, big and small, solve some complex problems. We launched Pathways to Technology (P-TECH) in two South Auckland schools and SkillsBuild Reignite to help address our skills shortages in New Zealand.

“I'm proud of our commitment to diversity, inclusion, gender balance and equality throughout the business, including at the board and leadership levels.

Smith also offered his congratulations to Hook, praising the appointment.

“It is wonderful to see David Hook now leading IBM New Zealand — IBM is in very good hands,” Smith wrote.