Kenneth Cron has been named interim CEO at Computer Associates (CA), after Sanjay Kumar last week stepped down as chairman and CEO amid a federal investigation of the group.
Kumar is still at CA and now holds the newly created post of chief software architect.
New chairman Lewis Ranieri said last week that the change to Kumar`s role was not based on the conclusion that he had engaged in wrongdoing. "Nonetheless, the conduct in question occurred during his tenure and the board felt this action was appropriate," he said.
The investigations being carried out by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) relate to allegations of accounting fraud and obstruction of justice.
Several CA staff members have been fired or forced to quit as a result of the probe. Earlier this month former chief financial officer Ira Zar pleaded guilty to fraud and obstruction charges and said two other top executives had conspired with him.
Three other employees have also pleaded guilty to criminal charges.
Cron`s appointment is effective until a permanent replacement can be found. At the same time, Ranieri has announced the appointment of Jeff Clarke as chief operating officer.
"These appointments solidify and strengthen CA`s senior management at a critical juncture in the company," Ranieri says. "I am delighted that Ken Cron has agreed to step into the CEO`s role at such an important time.
"As CA`s board engages in an active CEO search, Ken will provide the leadership, continuity of CA`s vision and the business experience necessary to continue to move the company forward and position it for long-term success."
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