New Webroot boss flags ANZ markets as 'great potential'

Webroot's new global chief executive has flagged Australia and New Zealand as an area of 'great potential' for the cybersecurity vendor.

Cisco veteran Mike Potts is taking over the top role from Dick Williams, who has lead the company since 2009.

Potts, who most recently served as an integration executive in the security business group at Cisco, says "I see great potential for Webroot across the Australia and New Zealand markets.

"Expanding our network of managed service providers is a priority to address the urgent need for businesses of all sizes to protect themselves against cyber criminals and the potentially crippling costs of security breaches," Potts says.

He says he also sees Australia and New Zealand as a key market for Webroot's new security awareness training solutions, which aim to help end-users become more 'security smart' and less vulnerable to cyber criminal tactics.

Jake Reynolds, Webroot board of directors member, says Potts' 'exceptional leadership talent' and more than 25-year track record of driving innovation and growth at technologies makes him the right choice to take the vendor to its next level of success.

He will lead Webroot's strategic direction as well as its day to day operations.

"I'm thrilled to be joining Webroot at such an exciting time," Potts says.

"Dick has done a remarkable job developing a storng team and establishign a consistent record of innovation and growth.

"The urgent need for cyber protection and intelligence increses daily, and Webroot is in a great position to expand market share with its uniquely powerful solutions.

"I look forward to rapidly accelerating our growth and leadership in cybersecurity.

Potts takes over as the 'reinvented' company marks 14 consecutive quarters of double-digit growth.

Williams lead a reinvention of the cmopany with the introduction of cloud-based cybersecurity solutions. During his years with the vendor, Webroot achieved rapid, profitable growth and expanded its portfolio to include endpoint and network security, threat intelligence services and security awareness training.

Potts takes over the role from September 25, with Williams remaining as a member of the company's board.