Cisco Shuffles Execs, Creates New SMB Role

In its latest move to push deeper into the small- and midsize-business market, Cisco Systems late Wednesday created a new senior-level executive position to head its commercial business.

Chief Marketing Officer James Richardson has been named senior vice president of Cisco’s commercial business. In his new role, the 16-year Cisco veteran has been tasked with driving the San Jose, Calif.-based company’s SMB initiatives on a global basis, aligning products, services, marketing and sales strategies to grow Cisco’s business in the segment.

Susan Bostrom takes over as chief marketing officer and has been named an executive officer. An eight-year Cisco veteran, Bostrom previously led the company’s Internet Business Solutions Group. She also continues to lead Cisco’s Worldwide Government Affairs organization.

Richardson and Bostrom will continue to report to Cisco President and CEO John Chambers.

Cisco has rolled out a slew of new channel programs, products and services over the past few years aimed at upping its share of the SMB market. The company identifies the commercial space as its fastest-growing customer segment.