Microsoft NZ appoints Matt Bostwick as commercial partner director

Microsoft's new commercial partner director Matt Bostwick is excited about the company's data center growth plans in New Zealand.

Bostwick, who was promoted to the role left by departing commercial partner director Sarah Bowden, says it's a challenging time for New Zealand as a country, as well as Microsoft's partner network.

"Now more than ever New Zealand businesses need access to the right technology tools and support networks to be successful, and Microsoft will play an integral role in this," says Bostwick.

In May, Microsoft announced that it would launch a new data center in the region, which will provide local services such as Microsoft 365, Azure, Dynamics 265, and Power Platform. It will also create an opportunity for in-country data hosting and data sovereignty.

The announcement grabbed the attention of Minister for Broadcasting, Communications and Digital Media Kris Faafoi, who declared that it is a confidence boost for New Zealand's economic recovery after COVID-19.

"The Government, and New Zealand businesses and people, will be able to access the scale and security of cloud services offered by a major global provider in ways we haven't been able to before," commented Faafoi in May.

"Protecting New Zealanders' data and privacy is critically important. Onshore cloud facilities give us stronger control of our data and reduce the concerns relating to storing data offshore."

Bostwick says he is driven to unite people through the power of a strong vision.

"Even though we're at the bottom of the world, Microsoft can enable New Zealand software start-ups and innovators to go global, by leveraging our partner networks and global cloud capabilities.

"This is particularly exciting as we progress plans to establish a Microsoft data center region in New Zealand. I believe this creates a huge growth opportunity for our partners, customers, and anyone in the innovation ecosystem in Aotearoa.

He says the data center will enable people to develop solutions locally, drive digital transformation, and contribute to our economic rebuild.

On Bostwick's appointment, Microsoft New Zealand managing director Vanessa Sorenson, says: "We are so thrilled to welcome Matt into this new position. He has exceptional experience in the technology sector and is passionate about helping innovative New Zealand organisations succeed. I look forward to seeing him support our partners to achieve more in this new role.

Bostwick has previously worked in sectors such as public affairs, local government, telco, software start-ups, and most recently enterprise sales at Microsoft.