Neel Mehta
Symantec announced today that its board of directors plans to elect Steve Bennett as its new Chairman, succeeding former CEO John Thompson. Bennett“™s new role is effective Oct. 25, the same day Thompson“™s term concludes.
Bennett joined Symantec“™s board of directors in February 2010, having previously served as President and Chief Executive Officer at Intuit. Prior to his work with Inuit, he fulfilled a 23-year career with General Electric, managing organizations ranging from consumer appliances to financial services. In addition to his work with Symantec, Bennett currently serves on boards at American Airlines as well as parent company AMR Corporation, Qualcomm and Vertafore.
“In my years with Symantec I“™ve had the opportunity to work with an amazingly talented team who worked tirelessly to protect our customers and enable them to be confident online,“ said Thompson. “I believe that Symantec is on the right path and came to my decision to step down from the board of directors, knowing that Enrique, Steve and the other members of the board are enabling a vision that positions Symantec well for future success. Steve“™s leadership and expertise in delivering technology across the enterprise, small and mid-sized business and consumer markets will be a valuable asset in guiding Symantec“™s future direction.“
Thompson has chosen to pursue other business and personal interests rather than run for reelection.
