HP software chief adds strategy leader to corporate duties

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Company says the new role is aimed at keeping the computer giant on the cutting edge of innovation.

In another move designed to further resolve Hewlett-Packard’s recent leadership problems, the company this week named Bill Veghte chief strategy officer.

Veghte’s new role reaffirms HP’s commitment to providing customers with the latest platforms, products and services needed for success in a rapidly changing world, the Jan. 17 company announcement said.

As chief strategy officer, Veghte will work with HP’s senior business and technology leaders and be responsible for keeping HP on the cutting edge of innovation, the announcement said.

He also will continue in his current role as executive vice president of HP Software, leading the cloud and WebOS open-source initiatives.

Veghte joined HP in 2010 after two decades working at Microsoft Corp. in a variety of senior leadership positions, including managing the company’s $15 billion global Windows business and the delivery and launch of Windows 7.

He holds a Bachelor of Arts in East Asian studies from Harvard University.

Hewlett-Packard Co., of Palo Alto, Calif., ranks No. 7 on Washington Technology’s 2011 Top 100 list of the largest federal government contractors.