Marianne Ma, a 25 year old Microsoft New Zealand employee, has taken on the leadership role of Microsoft APAC business manager.

In the role, Ma will be based in Singapore and will report directly to Cesar Cernuda, Microsoft president, Asia Pacific.

Ma will work closely with the APAC president and be responsible for developing and communicating group strategy to Microsoft executives, customer groups, product developers and other stakeholders.

Ma has worked at Microsoft New Zealand for the past three years as channel executive for Microsoft's SMB and partner team.

She joined the company as an intern, and was then part of the Microsoft Academic - College Hires programme, after completing qualifications in Marketing and Psychology from the University of Auckland.

 Brent Kendrick, Microsoft New Zealand SMB and partner director, says Ma's appointment to the regional role is a testament to the positive and career-nurturing work environment the company strives to create locally in New Zealand.

“We are immensely proud that one of our own has been recognised for her skills and talents gained from her time working in the New Zealand subsidiary,” says Kendrick.

“Marianne's consistent performance and success in this role have brought about this significant career development opportunity, so we congratulate her and wish her all the very best for this exciting role in the Microsoft APAC Leadership Team,” he says.

Ma says she was overwhelmed to have been offered the opportunity following what was a rigorous interview process.

“I am full of excitement and gratitude to be given this amazing opportunity, which is without a doubt, a dream come true.

“I would like to sincerely thank the New Zealand subsidiary for training me over the past few years, and for all the guidance and support the leadership team has generously offered me for this new role,” she says.