Purple signs Microsoft exec to head Asia Pacific

Purple has snapped up former Microsoft executive Petah Green as its new vice president for Asia Pacific as the intelligent spaces vendor ramps up its business across Asia Pacific.

Green was previously head of Microsoft's enterprise and public sector sales for Australia and New Zealand.

In her new role at Purple, Green will be responsible for growth and strategic direction across APJ.

She will also be focusing on strategic relationships within the service provider sector.

Green's appointment comes as Purple plans 'significant' investment in sales representatives in the region in the coming months as it seeks to take the lead in real-time analytics and marketing for venues and businesses that want to engage with visitors and understand the use of physical spaces.

Eric Law, Purple chief revenue officer, says Green has experience in leading large organisations at some of the top IT companies in the world.

"That will be critical as we invest and expand our footprint into the Asia Pacific region," Law says.

"Petah has repeatedly brought together her business transformation ability with her technology savvy to impact marquee customers of the region and we are excited for her to do the same in creating intelligent spaces with Purple customers," he adds.

Green, who will be Singapore based, says she's looking forward to forging new relationships and adding to the Purple brand in the region.

"Purple's analytics and data systems offer customers a wide range of opportunities, many of which aren't currently available in the market," Green says.

Prior to her time with Microsoft, Green had roles including vice president for Asia Pacific for OpenWave Software and numerous roles at HP, including CMS SEA director and director of software for Asia Pacific.

Purple has a global distribution agreement with Westcon Comstor, as well as regional distribution deals, including with Connector System – now part of Ingram Micro – in New Zealand.