BlackBerry smartphone maker Research In Motion has appointed experienced APAC staffer Ray Gillenwater to lead the company’s operations in Australia and New Zealand.

Gillenwater has been with the company for almost five years, starting in California as regional channel manager before taking roles as distribution sales manager, Indonesia, senior distribution sales manager, Southeast Asia, and director, Philippines.

He replaces Adele Beachley, who had held the position since September 2008.

Gillenwater says his immediate focus will be on preparing for the launch of BlackBerry 10, the new operating system due out later this year.

Check out his LinkedIn profile here.