Artec Computer Systems has announced that its CEO, Andrew Tucker, has relocated to Australia in order to explore growing business opportunities in that country.
Meanwhile, the company reports that its local operations are experiencing strong growth into neighbouring African countries, including Botswana, Namibia, Nigeria, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Artec managing director Patrick Maddox says Tucker has played a pivotal role in the development of the company, initially as managing director and then as CEO. "Tucker has invested his passion in Artec since day one. He regularly challenges technology`s role in business environments, a quality that has propelled the business to its present position of a highly respected solution provider."
Despite the move, Tucker retains the position of CEO of Artec; his personal investment in, and commitment to, the company remains unchanged.
"I am certainly not leaving the company, but rather exploiting current and emerging business opportunities in Australia," he says.
In the last year, Tucker says Artec has recorded growth of over 40% and is set to continue along this path with strong vendor and partner relationships - notably with Microsoft - as well as a loyal customer base.
In reaction to concerns over the loss of his presence in the South African company, Tucker notes that a company is successful mainly because of its people, and not just one individual. "All that has been accomplished at Artec has been a team effort. Our team is highly qualified, our methodology successful and our customers happy. That is not going to change despite my move to a different country."
Tucker has been researching the international technology market for the past four years, concentrating on the Australian market. "The Australian market is very similar to the local conditions in many ways. Our `business first, technology last` methodology which has been successful locally has been relatively untested in their market, and research indicates that the model will be well accepted there," he says.
Tucker has become well known in the IT industry as an expert in his field. He has often slated technology experts, innovations and trends for not delivering real value to business.
In 1999, Artec refused to indiscriminately upgrade customers` technology environments to protect against possible Y2K failures. The company underwrote the environments and guaranteed reimbursement for any failures. Its money was safe as not one environment went down - and its customers have been loyal ever since.
Artec has seen enormous growth since inception, boasting offices in three regions throughout SA and points of service across the country. Maddox notes that the company is also expanding northwards by implementing solutions and supporting several initiatives for companies in neighbouring African countries eager to capitalise on its considerable expertise. Its head office has also moved to larger premises in Hurlingham Office Park, Sandton.
Maddox says there are many developments under way at the company. "Growth is always welcomed, but if not managed properly, it can also be self-defeating. We are approaching every new opportunity with care to ensure the right steps are taken. With Tucker taking to Australia, we are confident of continuing the growth path while managing existing clients and obligations very closely."
For further information, please contact Sharon le Page at telephone +27 11 706 8075; fax +27 11 706 8077; email slepage@jhb.artec.co.za
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Artec Computer Systems is a primary IT consultancy and networking service provider with the expertise and skills that empower it to re-organise, re-engineer and restructure IT networks and computer systems for corporate clients. A Microsoft Gold Certified Partner, Artec offers flexible outsourcing options and a full managed services facility, and is also an associate consultant company for Microsoft Africa.
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