Symantec CEO John W. Thompson to Retire

John W. Thompson, chairman and chief executive officer, Symantec, will retire as CEO at the end of the fiscal year. Thompson is one of a few black executives to head a major technology company. Thompson, 59, will remain chairman of the board and work with the team to ensure a smooth transition.

"I am proud of our team's accomplishments over the past 10 years as we've transformed the company from a consumer software publisher to the leader in Internet security, data protection and storage management," said Thompson. "I've always believed planning for succession was a critical part of my role and, for the past two years, have been working with the board on a thoughtful succession plan. Through that process, Enrique emerged as the right person to lead the company and I am confident in his ability to continue to drive the success of our team."

The board of directors has appointed Enrique T. Salem, Symantec's chief operating officer, as president and chief executive officer effective April 4, 2009.

Symantec is a provider of security, storage and systems management solutions to help consumers and organizations secure and manage their information.