Avnet Distribution Executive Steps Down

McDermott, who joined Avnet when the Phoenix-based distributor purchased GE Access, is leaving on her own accord, according to the company. She will stay with Avnet for about two more months, in part to work on the Voice of the Customer initiative that she helped launch about nine months ago, according to a spokesperson.

McDermott is out of the office today and next week and could not be reached for comment.

Fred Cuen, president, Avnet Technology Solutions Americas, said McDermott's work on "Voice of the Customer" has helped strengthen services.

"I have been fortunate to work closely with Anna since she joined Avnet more than a year ago," Cuen said. "Her professionalism, industry knowledge and incredible energy have been a tremendous asset to our business. For the last nine months, Anna has been designing and articulating our "Voice of the Customer" office and through her efforts, work is underway to ensure we are delivering world-class service throughout our business. We wish her well and, again, thank her for her significant contributions to Avnet."

McDermott was CEO of GE Access when Avnet purchased the Sun Microsystems-focused distributor in November 2006 for $415 million. She was named one of the 50 Most Powerful Women of the Channel by CMP Channel, now Everything Channel, in 2006 and 2007. She was named CEO of GE Access in April 2003, succeeding John Paget.

In an unrelated action, according to the company, Avnet laid off "less than 2 percent" of its Technology Solutions Americas associates last week. Among the cuts was marketing executive Mark Kulaga.