TORONTO-The board of directors of Nortel Networks Ltd. said it has announced executive changes as part of its move to strengthen its leadership.
Bill Owens remains chief executive officer, but he will also take on the position of vice chairman. He drops the president function to Gary Daichendt, who combines that position with that of chief operating officer.
Daichendt comes from Cisco Systems Inc., where he was executive vice president of worldwide operations.
Peter Currie will take on the post of executive vice president and chief financial officer, while Pascal Debon, who is president of carrier networks, will assume the role of special adviser to the vice chairman and CEO.
Daichendt oversaw Cisco’s sales force, services, manufacturing facilities, integration execution and strategic alliances.
“We are playing to win,” said Owens, “and Gary will play a critical role in our doing so.”