Synnex Hires Former Tech Data Exec for Leadership Role

Synnex just hired Michael Urban as president of worldwide technology solutions distribution, a newly created position which reflects the consolidation of leadership in the distributor’s Technology Solutions business. 

In this new role, which starts in February, Urban will oversee the strategic direction of distribution, logistics and integration services operations. He reports to Dennis Polk, president and CEO of Synnex.

Synnex’s Michael Urban

“Michael brings a wealth of leadership and operational experience to this new role. Our partners and the execution of our ongoing distribution strategic business initiatives will benefit from the consolidation of our global Technology Solutions distribution business under one leader,” said Polk.

“It’s an important step for us and our partners,” Bob Stegner, senior vice president, marketing, North America at Synnex told Channel Partners. “Michael will play a critical role in strengthening the synergies between our three main geographies — North America, Latin America and Japan.” 

Peter Larocque, president North American Technology Solutions; Otavio Lazarini Barbosa, executive vice president Latin America, Westcon-Comstor Americas; and T.J. Trojan, CEO, Synnex Infotec Japan, will report to Urban. 

An industry veteran with more than 25 years of distribution and IT experience, Urban most recently held the title of corporate senior vice president, strategy, transformation and global vendor management at rival Tech Data, where he worked for more than six years. His initial position at Tech Data was senior vice president of broadline, consumer electronic, services and procurement in Barcelona. Urban also has experience as CEO and chairman of Carpo Holding AG and Actebis Holding GmbH (now Also Holding). 

Synnex revenue was up nearly 15 percent year over year – to $4.9 billion – in its quarter ending in August 2018. Technology Solutions revenue was $4.4 billion, an increase of about 17 percent over the same period a year prior.

Synnex last month said it expects fiscal fourth quarter revenue to be in the range of $5.5-$5.6 billion. Those official results will be released Jan. 10.