In a shock to the reseller community, Cisco Systems Canada‘s vice-president of enterprise and small and medium business operations, Brent Rebus, left his position this week.
Rebus, who had previously held the title director
of Canadian channel relations, had been with Cisco for nine years. Prior to joining Cisco in late 1994, Rebus spent 11 years with IBM.
A Toronto-based spokesperson for Cisco did not explain the reason for Rebus’ departure, but presented a statement on behalf of the company.
“”After nine years with Cisco Systems Canada Co., Brent Rebus has decided to leave to pursue other opportunities. During his time at Cisco, Brent was a valued and respected member of the management team and we wish him well in future endeavours,”” he said.
Whatever his reason for leaving, Rebus will be missed by his colleagues, said Rick Reid, president of Tech Data Canada in Mississauga.
“”I first met him back in the mid-’90s and always enjoyed a good relationship with him,”” Reid said. “”I met him at many different business funcitons and often enjoyed a round or two of golf with him each year — he’s an excellent golfer.””
Reid first heard the news of Rebus’ departure from Cisco while on the east coast earlier this week.
“”I was with a gorup of industry veterans when I received the information on my e-mail on my RIM. I mentioned it to the members of the group and they were quite shocked,”” he said.
Reid described Rebus as a “”person of many talents”” and predicted that despite whatever may have prompted his leave, Rebus is undoubtedly going to land “”squarely on his feet.
“”Someone with as much tenure in our industry who has built up good, strong relationships will be missed. You could always rely on him in a time of need. I’m surprised and somewhat disappointed that he’s gone, but there are other great people and great friends within Cisco,”” he said.
Cisco Systems Canada’s spokesperson said the firm’s enterprise operations will be managed by Cisco Systems Canada’s existing regional managers in Eastern, Central and Western Canada: Michel Houde, Ross Pellizzari and Gilles St. Hilaire.
Earlier this year, Rebus participated in the city of Mississauga, Ont.’s implementation of VoIP technology.
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