Neill Burton parts ways with HDS

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There’s been a shake-up at the top at Hitachi Data Systems that has seen VP, channels and alliances Neill Burton, ousted from the firm.

While rumours circulate as to the reasons behind the fallout, HDS has yet to provide official word on Burton’s departure. When asked for comment, the vendor released a statement just confirming HDS’ enterprise platform and software solutions director, Lynn Collier, has been appointed to the role of chief operating officer within the UK business.

It said: “Lynn’s appointment will elevate our focus on executing against a robust and effective partnering strategy. Lynn will also focus on leading sales enablement and productivity across both the direct and indirect routes to market.

“Lynn’s broad experience will help take our channel organisation to the next phase, where continuing to build close partner relationships and broadening our reach into new areas and markets is a priority for growth.

It then adds: “Neill Burton has been a valued member of the leadership team and has played a significant role in driving our partner strategy to date.”

Last month HDS announced former EMC exec Richard Gadd as its new managing director for the UK and Ireland.

Burton was unavailable yet for comment.

Christine Horton

Christine has been a tech journalist for over 20 years, 10 of which she spent exclusively covering the IT Channel. From 2006-2009 she worked as the editor of Channel Business, before moving on to ChannelPro where she was editor and, latterly, senior editor.

Since 2016, she has been a freelance writer, editor, and copywriter and continues to cover the channel in addition to broader IT themes. Additionally, she provides media training explaining what the channel is and why it’s important to businesses.