IBM sets up sixth region, appoints Shanker Annaswamy as RGM

New Delhi, Jan 9 (UNI) IBM today announced the creation of India/South Asia as its sixth and newest region in Asia Pacific and ASEAN as a stand-alone region and also appointed Shanker Annaswamy its Region General Manager (RGM).

Mr Annaswamy, who has been the General Manager of IBM India since July 2004, will continue leading IBM's India operations in addition to his region responsibilities and report to IBM Asia Pacific President Frank Kern.

''This development further affirms IBM's strategy to transform into a globally integrated enterprise, reaping benefits for our clients, our business and our shareholders within each region and growing the markets respectively,'' Mr Kern said.

Other regions within IBM Asia Pacific are Australia/New Zealand, Greater China Group, Japan and Korea.

The ASEAN region, comprising Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and other territories, will be helmed by Ong Hoon Meng, who succeeds DC Chien as the Region General Manager of IBM ASEAN. Ong, who will be based in Singapore, will report to Mr Kern.

In June 2006, IBM's Chairman, President and CEO, Samuel J Palmisano announced a six billion dollars investment over the next three years in India.

UNI