HP has appointed L'eo Apotheker as its CEO, ending weeks of uncertainty following the abrupt departure of Mark Hurd in August, under a cloud of sexual harassment and improper conduct allegations.
This is the third time HP has looked outside for its top job.
A veteran of the software industry, Apotheker was previously CEO of SAP. “Apotheker's more than 20 years' experience at SAP was instrumental in making the company the largest business software applications company in the world,” says HP.
“L'eo is a strategic thinker with a passion for technology, wide-reaching global experience and proven operational discipline - exactly what we were looking for in a CEO,” comments Robert Ryan, lead independent director of HP's board.
“After more than two decades in the industry, he has a strong track record of driving technological innovation, building customer relationships and developing world-class teams,” notes Ryan.
“HP has a powerful mix of businesses, products and services, one of the most innovative cultures in the industry, and an accomplished management team who have played a critical role in its success,” says Apotheker. “I am deeply honoured to be joining the more than 300 000 dedicated HP employees.”
Apotheker will take over from Cathie Lesjak, who has been holding the interim reins since Hurd's departure. Lesjak, who has served as HP's CFO since January 2007, remains CFO and continues to serve as a member of the executive council.
The company also appointed Ray Lane, Oracle's former president, as non-executive chairman of its board of directors.
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