Microsoft solutions provider Avanade has announced the appointment of Rodrigo Caserta as its new CEO, effective September 1.
Caserta has been with Avanade for nearly a decade and will take over from his current position as head of the company’s Global Technology Business Group. Since joining the company, the seasoned leader has been credited with playing a key role in fostering a “customer-centric and people-centric culture.”
She will replace Pamela Maynard, who will leave Avanade at the end of August to join Microsoft as director of AI transformation for its Microsoft Customer and Partner Solutions (MCAPS) business.
“It is an honor to follow in the footsteps of Pam, who brought me to Avanade nearly a decade ago,” said Caserta. “The wisdom I have gained from her is invaluable and it is a privilege to carry on her legacy as Avanade’s next CEO.”
“In an era marked by complex challenges, fierce competition and the compelling need to leverage AI, our clients have always found Avanade to be a trusted partner. I am excited and look forward to this opportunity to lead, guided by our deep expertise, bold ambitions and collaborative spirit.”
Prior to his current role, Caserta also served as General Manager of Avanade in Brazil and then as President of Growth Markets for the company, where he is credited with leading significant growth in both revenue and headcount across the APAC and Latin America regions, as well as helping the company consistently outperform the market.
Commenting on his appointment, Karthik Narain, chairman of Avanade and group CEO of Accenture Technology, said Caserta’s wealth of experience will help expand the company’s leadership position in the Microsoft services sector.
“I am excited to see Rodrigo, a long-time Avanade leader, become CEO,” he said. “With his experience in the enterprise and mid-market, deep understanding of our customers and commitment to our people, he is the right person to lead Avanade as we expand our market share.”
Maynard leaves Avanade
Long-time Avanade veteran Pamela Maynard will be leaving the company after more than 16 years of service in various leadership roles. In September 2019, she was appointed CEO and has overseen a period of successful company-wide growth and transformation during her tenure.
“I thank Pam for her leadership in doubling our business and leading a cultural transformation focused on inclusion, diversity and well-being, and we look forward to continuing to work closely with her in her new role at Microsoft,” Narain added.
In his new role at Microsoft, Maynard led the AI transformation for MCAPS, leveraging the Redmond giant’s AI portfolio to drive internal and customer transformation.
“For nearly a decade, Microsoft and Avanade have been at the forefront of AI innovation, and both Pam and Rodrigo have played a critical role in advancing our progress,” said Judson Althoff, chief commercial officer at Microsoft.
“I look forward to this next chapter, with confidence in their leadership and experience, as we further strengthen the long-standing partnership between Microsoft and Avanade and pioneer new advancements in our industry.”