Geoff Haydon Steps in as Absolute Software CEO

Absolute Software (ABT) welcomed former EMC executive Geoff Haydon as its new CEO last week, as the endpoint security company looks to stabilize its current leadership. Haydon, who also was named to the company’s Board of Directors, will be responsible for leading the company’s global business efforts.

“We are extremely pleased to have someone of Geoff’s caliber join to lead Absolute,” said Daniel P. Ryan, chairman of Absolute, in a prepared statement. “With his background in enterprise security software and his proven track record of growth and experience in both North American and global markets, he is the right person to take Absolute to the next level in terms of revenue growth, global reach and increased profitability.”

Haydon has more than 20 years of experience in the IT sector, including a longstanding history with EMC. Prior to his new appointment at Absolute, Haydon was chief operating officer for EMC’s Asia-Pacific and Japan region, where he led the company’s business unit. Haydon has also served in various leadership positions at RSA, a division of EMC, including vice president of Americas Sales and as the leader of the RSA business for Asia Pacific and Japan, according to the press release. He is expected to join Absolute July 7, and will be stationed at the company’s corporate head office in Vancouver.

In light of Haydon’s appointment, Absolute COO Rob Chase announced he will be stepping down from his current position as of June 18 to pursue other interests. Chase will remain involved with Absolute in a limited role as a strategic adviser for the foreseeable future. Interim CEO Errol Olsen will continue in his role as chief financial officer at Absolute once Haydon takes up the mantle next month.

“I am tremendously excited about the opportunity to join the team at Absolute and to build on the company’s past success,” said Haydon. “Absolute has a unique solution portfolio that addresses the key security and management challenges that organizations are facing with the rise of mobility. With a broad product portfolio, diverse customer base and strong financial foundation, Absolute is extremely well-positioned to take advantage of this multi-billion market opportunity.”