Networking firm Cisco has announced the promotion of David Meads (pictured middle) to the role of its Vice President (VP) for Africa as well as new general manager appointments.

Meads is planned to be responsible for the sales operations and go-to-market model across the continent, says Cisco in a press statement.

He is also, though, set to focus on how information technology can help to increase the productivity and competitiveness of organisations and nations in Africa, in a bid to ultimately support governments’ country transformation agendas, says Cisco.

Meads has 29 years experience in the information technology industry.

And his transition to VP follows a one year tenure as the managing director, Africa Emerging Theatre at Cisco, as well as more than two and a half years as MD for Cisco in South Africa.

“My key objective is to drive Cisco’s strategy to support African country innovation, prosperity, sustainability, and social inclusion through the build out of life-changing networks,” Meads says in a statement.

“Ultimately, Cisco wants to enable customers, nations and organisations in Africa to be more productive and competitive, through the adoption and use of technology,” Meads adds.

Meanwhile, Sabrina Dar becomes GM, sales for East Africa and is set to look after markets including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Ethiopia.

Dare Ogunlade becomes GM, sales for Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone.