OKI is looking to grow its distributor and reseller network in New Zealand, and has appointed a new channel manager for the region to drive this growth.

The global manufacturer of business printers and multifunction devices has announced Chris Thorley has taken on the role of New Zealand channel manager.

Based in Auckland, Thorley will focus on supporting OKI's current channel partners as well as identifying new potential distributors and resellers to drive future growth among enterprise business organisations.

Thorley has more than 15 years' experience in the printer industry working for both vendors and within channel-based organisations. He was previously general manager New Zealand for Kyocera Document Solutions Australasia, where he was responsible for managing customer and vendor relationships as well as overseeing sales, service and operational support.

Prior to this, he was national sales and category manager for Office Products Depot in Auckland, during which time he managed the national account programme and sales team.

Thorley has also previously held brand marketing manager positions with OKI Data Australia, Comworth Technologies and Ingram Micro as well as sales management positions at Konica Minolta Business Solutions and Corporate Consumables.

Greg Mikaelian, OKI Data Australia and New Zealand Oceanic region sales manager, says, “OKI is delivering a winning formula for the region with a strong channel structure and expertise in helping businesses with their printer and consumables requirements.

“Adding to this will be Chris' extensive experience in working with partners and customers, coupled with his depth of knowledge in driving business success.

 Thorley says, “As companies in all markets grapple with digital business transformation and strive harder to drive innovation, I'm looking forward to deploying my experience and knowledge to enable OKI to strategically engage with our customers and partners.