Avnet Taps Hurst to Lead Sun Unit, McDermott SVP of ATS

This is the first time Avnet will host the conference, formerly held by Access Distribution. Avnet acquired Access earlier this year and recently completed its integration of Sun Microsystems' largest distributor.

Phoenix, Ariz.-based Avnet has tapped former Access Distribution executive Mike Hurst to head up its Sun business as vice president and general manager of its Sun Solutions Group. Before taking the Sun helm, Hurst headed Access's mature technologies business, which included its Sun channel business.

Former Access CEO Anna McDermott will be tasked with optimizing the Avnet Technology Solutions business in the Americas as senior vice president for ATS, Americas. She had been senior vice president of Avnet's ATS Access Division.

Both executives will report to Fred Cuen, president, Avnet Technology Solutions, Americas.

"Anna's new role is a huge win for the entire business," said Cuen, in a statement. "With Mike at the helm of the Sun business, Anna will focus her energy and enthusiasm on further driving partner engagement and business optimization across the Technology Solutions enterprise in the Americas."

"For the past year, I have been focused on and leading the efforts surrounding the sale, acquisition and integration of the Access Distribution business into Avnet," said McDermott, in a statement. "I'm excited about the potential of the combined Avnet and Access business, and am committed to optimizing the expanded business, with a goal of accelerating growth opportunities for our employees, suppliers, partners and shareholders."