VALLEY FORGE, Pa.--Aug. 9, 2004-- IKON Office Solutions, the world's largest independent channel for document management systems and services, today announced the creation of a new executive role to drive sales execution and profitable growth. Brian Edwards, former Vice President/General Manager of IKON's Western Region, has been named Senior Vice President, North American Sales, reporting directly to Matthew J. Espe, IKON's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. IKON's four Regional Vice President/General Managers in North America will report directly to Edwards. "Brian's proven ability to execute, coupled with his strong relationships with fellow field leaders, makes him the ideal choice to drive profitable growth for IKON in this important new position," said Matthew J. Espe. "Over the past year, we have been steadily improving our operating mechanisms, enhancing leadership and simplifying our regional structure. In this new role, Brian will help us accelerate the opportunities we've identified for growth - strengthening our core business, while aligning with our goals for market expansion through IKON Enterprise Services and Europe." Edwards began his IKON career as a sales representative in 1985, and was quickly promoted within the sales organization. By 1988 he was appointed District Sales Manager, and served in a variety of sales management roles until becoming a General Manager in 1994. After generating positive results in two marketplaces as General Manager, Edwards was promoted to Regional Vice President and General Manager of the Northeast Region. After five successful years in the Northeast Region, Edwards was called to lead the consolidated Western Region, comprised of 11 marketplaces and providing geographical coverage west of Denver, CO, including Alaska and Hawaii. "I am excited to lead such a powerful sales force, representing the best product and services portfolio in the industry," said Edwards. "I look forward to working closely with IKON's senior team as we build on our strategy to grow share in all segments and markets." Edwards, 41, holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing from the University of Rhode Island. Throughout his career, he has been active in community affairs, including service as co-chair for the United Way Campaign, Capital District in Hartford, Connecticut during 2002 and 2003.