VMware creates role for Borland exec

VMware has appointed Tod Nielsen, formerly of Borland Software, to the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Nielsen worked at Borland for three years and was senior vice president of marketing and global sales support at Oracle, in addition to working at Microsoft for 12 years, serving in roles such as general manager of database and developer tools. He will report directly to president and chief executive Paul Maritz.

The role is new to VMware, which has created the position for Nielsen. "I am delighted to have Tod join VMware and bring his passion for software and wealth of leadership experience to our executive team," said Maritz in a statement.

"In this newly created role, Tod brings unique skills and capabilities that will help us improve our operational focus and enhance our execution across all areas of the business. With Tod on board, I will be able to devote more of my time to the product strategy and development, while Tod focuses more on business, marketing, and operations. Having worked closely with Tod in the past, I know that we will work effectively together and complement each other."

Nielsen added: "VMware is an impressive company that is in the enviable position of giving customers a significant return on their IT investment which is becoming only more important in these challenging economic times.

"As an admirer of the company's strong track record of software innovation, I'm excited about working with my new colleagues at VMware to help our customers truly transform the way they manage their IT resources."

In addition to Nielsen's departure, Borland said that Peter Morowski, senior vice president of research and development, was leaving. In tough financial times the firm also announced plans to cut its staff by about 15 per cent It has also reduced its revenue forecasts.

Following Nielsen's exit the company has named Erik Prusch as acting president and chief executive.