Microsoft shifts gear

There’s a feeling of change within Microsoft NZ with a new managing director, new building, new staff and new roles. John Bessey, recently appointed SMS&P director, says there’s a new level of excitement among the staff and says partners have begun to notice.  “In part I think it’s because of this amazing technical wave that’s coming with the new releases. That excitement and the significant impact new technologies like Vista will have on the market is one of the reasons I was so keen to join the company,” he says.  Bessey is also quick to credit Helen Robinson, Microsoft NZ managing director, as another key factor in taking the role. “Helen is an amazing person and I leapt at the chance to work with her. She’s already brought a real change to the culture of the business.” Previously with Gen-i, Bessey says making the transition from partner to vendor has been a real eye opener.  “I didn’t realise what a great opportunity is to work across all business areas. To go from one business to many means the blinkers have really come off.” Now he’s sitting on the other side of the fence Bessey says he’s taking a good look at how Microsoft works with its partners.Staying with Microsoft David Guy has moved into a new role as enterprise group director.  Previously Guy led Microsoft’s business solutions group. Brett Roberts, previously chief technology officer, has become director of innovation.