Richard Owen has announced that he will resign as CEO of AvantGo from 30th September 2002, the close of the company’s current financial quarter. AvantGo also expects to transfer trading of its shares to the Nadaq Small Cap market following a sustained period below USD 1.00.
AvantGo provides software for delivering web content and applications to mobile devices. It operates one of the world’s largest consumer mobile internet services, providing free web content to several million handheld computer users. Its products, which include tools for synchronising Lotus Notes and Microsoft Exchange data with mobile computers, are used by a number of Fortune 100 companies.
Owen’s decision to ‘pursue other interests’ has prompted a wider reshuffle, with CFO David Cooper assuming a dual role as Chief Operating Officer, with responsibility for the day-to-day operations of the company. James Richardson also joins as Chairman of the Board and will be tasked with finding a long-term replacement CEO. Owen joined in January 2000 from Dell, where he led the development of the company’s pioneering e-commerce operations.
James Richardson said: “On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Richard for the significant role he has played in making AvantGo the leading provider of mobile enterprise software. During Richard’s tenure, the company had a successful initial public offering in 2000 and posted revenues of $24 million in 2001. In addition, Richard has built a strong and committed management team that is focused on the company’s drive to profitability.”