Distributor Ingram Micro Canada announced this morning that it has appointed Tim Billing as its new vice-president, vendor management, replacing Mike Gazdic. Already a veteran with the distie, Billing previously held the position of vice president, North American Retail Sales, Ingram Micro.
CDN first reported Gazdic’s departure from Ingram Canada last week, a personnel move that was confirmed by Mark Snider, vice-president and general manager, Ingram Micro Canada.
“Mike Gazdic is no longer with us. We had to let go. It is never easy and Mike is a great guy and I was close to him. This is tough for sure,” said Snider.
Snider was unable to discuss the reasons behind the departure.
As he takes on the role of VP of vendor management, Billing will take charge of developing strategic vendor relationships, identifying key business development opportunities, and enhancing the execution of Ingram’s channel programs across Canada.
As well, Billing will have responsibility for the management of all Canadian inventories, including overseeing contracts, budgets and planning.
In a statement, Mark Snider, vice-president and general manager, Ingram Micro Canada, called Billing a strong addition to the team.
“Tim’s leadership and track record for success have been proven time and time again, which is why we are so pleased to announce him as head of our vendor management team,” said Snider. “With Tim at the helm, our vendor management team is primed to strengthen our existing vendor relationships and develop new relationships with those technology innovators and channel-friendly vendors that matter most to our partners.”
In his previous position leading retail sales for North America, Billing launched a number of go-to-market programs and initiatives, including Ingram’s video gaming business and Consumer Electronics division in Canada
In an interview with CDN, Snider called Billing a rising star in the Ingram organization, but insisted his ascension in no way led to Gazdic’s dismissal. Billing developed the retail business for Ingram and has been with the company for 11 years.
“I will try to help him out, but he has the experience with helping customer drive growth. He has a connection with customers and with vendors and did an excellent job with video gaming,” Snider said.
Gazdic isn’t the only recent high-profile departure from Ingram. Last week, former Ingram Micro Canada GM Martin Kalsbeek joined Synnex Canada as vice-president of business development.