Microsoft long-timer Patrick De Smedt (pictured) has joined GCI as Non-Executive Chairman in a move that sees current Chairman Wayne Martin step down from the role but remain on the GCI board. De Smedt spent 23 years with Microsoft which he joined in 1983 when it had just 200 employees.
He went on to become Chairman for Microsoft EMEA. Since leaving Microsoft at the end of 2006 he joined a number of public and private (equity backed) boards including Kodak Alaris Holdings, Morgan Sindall, PageGroup, Victrex and KCOM Group.
De Smedt's move to GCI follows Mayfair Equity Partners' taking of a majority stake in the business on the 8th May, and bringing with it a new strategic fund worth over £60m to provide GCI with significant financial firepower to finance future strategic acquisitions.
Adrian Thirkill, CEO of GCI, said: "As one of Microsoft's key UK partners Patrick's experience aligns to what we need as a business.
"I have worked with Patrick in a previous role and know what a great strategic thinker he is, as well as his passion for technology and supporting high growth businesses."
De Smedt added: "The market is still at the early stages of outsourcing mission critical systems and IT infrastructure, with consumers, brands and government bodies quickly becoming aware of the real benefits available. I look forward to working with both Adrian and Mayfair Equity Partners again to realise the business' vision."