Charles Chung retires due to “health issues”Acer Sales Director Darren Simmons is unveiled as Acer ANZ new Managing Director.
The appointment is effective from 10 February.
Current Managing Director, Charles Chung, will retire on 7 February following health issues and subsequent surgery, requested to be relinquished of his role to concentrate on his recovery and family.
Chung described it as “a very tough and heartrending decision to leave Acer, but I am confident the company will thrive under the leadership of Darren Simmons”.
“Acer was my first job after I graduated from the University and I have been working for the company since 1988. Acer is 100% inside my blood, heart, mind and soul.”
“I would like to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt thanks to the talented and dedicated Acer Australia & New Zealand team and our loyal channel and retail partners, who have made my time at Acer monumentally rewarding.”
His successor, Darren Simmons has been with company for over 13 years in his role as Sales Director for Acer.
He has worked in the IT industry since 1984, including a stint at HP as Corporate Account Rep and has extensive experience in the PC, NB and Intel Server market segmentations for various clients, via Direct B2B, Resellers, Distributors and Retail relationships, according to his LinkedIn profile.
During his time at Acer, he has proven he is a strong business leader with a results-driven management style, an affinity with the channel and an understanding of the Australian and international ICT markets, the company said.
Acer, a brand that has been in serious trouble both locally and worldwide, is undergoing a major business restructuring to adapt to the changing market and promote growth with a strong focus on the channel.
Read: Black Holes & Revelations: Acer’s $687m Loss
Only this week, the PC giant reported a full year (FY13) loss of $687.1m and operating losses in its final quarter, but promised a corporate transformation focusing on cloud, and IT services.
“With these changes in place the company is in a strong position,” Simmons said.
“Our task is not to reinvent an already successful business but to seek and develop opportunities that help grow the productivity and human potential of our customers, channel partners and Acer staff.
“It is with the greatest respect and reverence that I take over from Charles Chung as Managing Director. His vision for the company and unwavering dedication will continue to inspire the team.
“On behalf of myself and all at Acer Australia & New Zealand, we wish Charles a happy and well-deserved retirement.”
