NetSuite (NYSE: N) has recruited yet another Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) executive to bolster its channel line-up with the appointment of Doug Kennedy as its VP of global system integrators (GSIs).
Kennedy, who formerly managed channel operations for Microsoft’s Dynamics applications business, has been responsible for a range of programmes and initiatives that span partnering, channels, sales, marketing, customer lifecycle management and customer/partner support services.
He joins ex-Microsoft Dynamics GM, Fred Studer, who joined NetSuite as CMO in December 2014.
“Global Systems Integrators are increasingly discovering the agility, scalability and value that cloud-based applications can bring to their customers,” says Kennedy (pictured). “I’m excited to join NetSuite to extend its successful GSI program and bring NetSuite’s leading solution to enterprises across the world.”
The vendor, which provides cloud-based financials / ERP and omnichannel commerce software suites, has also appointed former Salesforce exec Frank Iannotti as the SVP of Enterprise Accounts
Both will be responsible for strategy across enterprise sales and partnerships with SIs, building off the strong momentum that NetSuite has seen in the sector with customers that now include Billabong, American Express Global Business Travel, Shaw Industries, TGI Fridays and HP Software.
“Both Frank and Doug bring a wealth of industry knowledge and expertise in enterprise sales and global partnerships that NetSuite needs as it enters its next phase of growth,” says Mike Arntz, SVP of sales americas. “To bring in just one of them would be a tremendous addition to the NetSuite team, but the chance to bring two accomplished executives like this is a great opportunity for the company.”
Although it has had an adversarial relationship with Microsoft in the past, NetSuite announced earlier this year that its cloud ERP suite is to be integrated with Microsoft’s Office and Azure platforms.
