MS appoints eGovt. strategy chief

Microsoft has created a new role: National Technology Officer (NTO). The post's remit is to oversee the development of the software giant's strategy in the lucrative public sector market.

Jerry Fishenden, who has been with Microsoft since 1997, and was previously head of networking at the Houses of Parliament, will fill the role in the UK. He has over 20 years' public sector experience, Microsoft said, and has authored numerous strategy papers on the effective use of IT in developing egovernment programmes.

"The NTO brings depth and breadth of experience of public sector technology needs, and will work to bring innovation and best practice use of technology to the public sector agenda," Fishenden commented. He added that he would be developing a technology strategy to fit specifically with "the implementation and use of technology by government, education and academia".

As well as the UK appointment, NTOs are being established in other countries and regions, including France, Germany, India and China. Microsoft claimed the move is an indication of its long term commitment to the public sector. ®

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