Microsoft's Fikany to oversee manufacturing industries

Microsoft Corp. on August 9 announced the appointment of John Fikany to vice president of the company's U.S. Manufacturing Industries. Fikany is charged with developing and leading strategy and execution for an over $1.5 billion business supporting more than 1,100 enterprise customers across the country. Fikany is responsible for the entire U.S. manufacturing industry (process and discrete) including the following verticals: automotive, aerospace, consumer packaged goods, general manufacturing, high-tech manufacturing, industrial equipment, oil and gas, transportation, and utilities.

Fikany brings to the position an impressive portfolio of management experience. Most recently, Fikany was general manager of the U.S. Manufacturing Industries responsible for developing strategy, solutions portfolios, cross-region communications, partnering and go-to-market, and sell-to and sell-through initiatives. Before his role as general manager, Fikany spent his first two years at Microsoft in the unique dual role as general manager of the Automotive and Industrial Equipment vertical, as well as general manager of the Great Lakes District, where he was responsible for all product and application sales, marketing, partnering, consulting, education, and support services.

"I am very pleased to announce John Fikany's promotion to vice president of U.S. Manufacturing. John is an outstanding leader driven by a passion for his customers and a shared vision for their success," said Jens Moberg, corporate vice president of the U.S. Enterprise and Partner group at Microsoft. "John makes a great addition to the executive leadership at Microsoft and will lead the Manufacturing team to new heights."

"I will continue to leverage the incredible Microsoft assets, supporting partner eco-system and most importantly our customers' insight, to drive measurable business value," Fikany said. "The best organizations have a common attribute and that's great people. I'm very fortunate to have the opportunity to lead such talented and committed people that are as passionate as I am, not only in serving our customers but also in making a difference in our communities."

Founded in 1975, Microsoft is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.