SAS, the business analytics software and services creats new professional services management team. SAS UK has newly appointed Kevin Meachen as its Executive Director for Professional Services, John Morton as its Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Gary Fitchett as Director of Service Lines.
The appointments come as part of SAS UK’s intensified focus on its professional services offerings. The aim is to continue SAS UK’s drive forward as the market leader in business analytics software, which is underpinned by its unparalleled strength in business and technology consultancy, implementation, education and support services. SAS UK looks to capitalise on the skills and experience of its recently appointed professional services management board, and to invest further in the talent of its existing team members. SAS’ key differentiator in the enterprise software market will be its superior focus on service and customer satisfaction.
“Despite the difficult economy, SAS continues to do very well,” says Ian Manocha, managing director of SAS UK & Ireland. “We are seeing increased demand for our software as well as our deep industry domain skills and applications expertise. We are, therefore, investing in a thriving services business to create more value for our customers and to better support our partners. This value comes from our advisory services that help organisations understand the potential benefits that business analytics can bring to their business, as well as through the application of our industry domain expertise in technical delivery. Furthermore, SAS continues to seek long-term and successful business partnerships, and to that end, a host of packaged services have been brought to market to help our customers rapidly maximise the return of their investments in SAS software.”
As SAS UK’s Executive Director for Professional Services, Meachen will be responsible for driving the growth and expert provision of SAS UK’s consulting, education and customer support services. Meachen joins SAS from Infor where he was Vice President for EMEA Professional Services. Prior to this, he worked for Epiphany as part of its EMEA start up management team where he built and ran a Professional Services business for 5 years. He has also worked as Director of Database Marketing Services at Harte-Hanks.
As CTO, Morton will develop and realise future applications that will deliver value and improve business performance to clients as well as advise them on making the most out of their investments in SAS. Morton’s 23 years of experience in the industry includes working as a global advisor and counsellor to CxOs and Directors on the capabilities and value of new technologies in providing operationally enhancing services. Morton joins SAS from Intel. Prior to this he was the CTO and Enterprise Architect working on several of the largest technology projects in Europe covering Central Government, Utilities, FMCG, Healthcare and Financial Services.
Fitchett’s main responsibilities as Director of Service Lines at SAS UK will be to focus on consulting service delivery and to provide thought leadership and direction on project implementation, best practices and service excellence. He brings 9 years of experience within professional services, having headed up applications delivery for PeopleSoft and then as Professional Services Director for Western Europe at Misys.
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