Sun Microsystems expands channel focus in Middle East and North Africa

In his new role, Vougas will be dedicated to further developing the expertise and scope of Sun's channel network through the company's iForce partner programme. Specifically, he will focus on the building of Sun-based industry solutions by independent software vendors (ISVs) in the region, as well as increasing certification levels in the iForce community to ensure a consistent service offering for customers across the MENA region.

"Based on the experience that Stavros has built up over the past five years with Sun, we anticipate that his new role will enable Sun to significantly boost the company's mindshare in this region as well as strengthening the initiatives of its channel," said Mehmet Iyimen, managing director for Sun's MENA operations.

"With Stavros concentrating on identifying new areas of investment and generating forward-looking channel and marketing strategies, we expect a significant rise in Sun's activity level throughout the Gulf, Levant, and North Africa markets," he continued.

In his new role, Vougas will draw on the experience he has gained with Sun in a number of management positions over the past few years. Previously, he acted as the channel manager for Sun MENA, and has held a prior role as the regional sales manager covering the Levant, Egypt and North Africa countries. Vougas' initial position with Sun was as the sales manager for Africa and emerging markets.

Commenting on his new responsibilities, he said, "Based on the experience I've gained by working closely with Sun's channel, sales, and marketing divisions in this region, I believe that my firsthand understanding of the business needs of organizations in this region will enable Sun to increase its market penetration in new sectors."

Vougas also brings to the channel and marketing position an impressive educational background. He holds two Masters degrees in aeronautics, one from the top French scientific higher education institution, Supaero, and the other from Boston University in the United States.