HP Forms New Software Unit For Server, Storage Management

HP's new Enterprise Storage and Server Software unit will be aimed at helping customers manage, virtualize, and automate IT systems, according to HP. Bob Schultz, 48, has been appointed to serve as senior VP and general manager of the unit, which is designed to bring together assets from several HP storage and server software portfolios, according to a release from the company. HP will use the unit to drive open standards and broaden support for its server and storage platforms, the company reports.

Initially, ESS Software offerings will include HP Systems Insight Manager; HP Storage Essentials, which is based on software from the acquisition of AppIQ; HP Virtual Server Environment; and HP ProLiant Essentials for server management.

"The formation of a focused storage and server software unit will help HP differentiate our servers and storage solutions," said Scott Stallard, a senior VP and general manager at HP, in a written statement. "Bob's ability to build strong businesses, collaborate across teams, and drive results with our sales and partner organizations are crucial skills well-matched to the needs of the new unit."

Schultz has been senior VP and general manager of the HP StorageWorks division since 2003. It's expected that he will continue to lead that unit until a successor is named in the next few weeks.