STAMFORD, Conn.-- April 3, 2007 -- Ursula M. Burns was appointed today to president of Xerox Corporation. She was also elected to the company's board of directors.
Burns was previously president of the company's Business Group Operations, responsible for global research, engineering, marketing and manufacturing of Xerox technology, supplies and related services. As president, Burns retains leadership of these functions as well as the company's information management organization. She also assumes responsibility for corporate strategy, human resources, marketing operations, and global accounts for Xerox. Burns reports to Xerox Chairman and CEO Anne M. Mulcahy. The company's worldwide sales organizations, Xerox Global Services, and finance and legal teams will continue to report to Mulcahy.
"Xerox today offers the broadest portfolio of document management systems and software in our industry and in our history. That progress happened on Ursula's watch as she drove a technology strategy that launched more than 100 products in the last three years," said Mulcahy. "At the same time, Ursula led activities that strengthened Xerox's business model so we're more efficient, competitive and profitable.
"This organizational change is a logical next step for our company and for Ursula. She brings deep knowledge and experience to the president role, where she'll work closely with me and our leadership team to accelerate our growth in color, services and new business markets."
Burns, 48, joined Xerox in 1980 as a mechanical engineering summer intern. She subsequently held positions in product development and planning. From 1992 through 2000, Burns led several business teams including the office color and fax business and office network copying business. In 2000, she was named senior vice president, Corporate Strategic Services, heading up manufacturing and supply chain operations. She was named president of Xerox Business Group Operations in 2002. Burns was appointed an officer of the company in 1997 and named a corporate senior vice president in 2000.
"I came to Xerox as a student intern 27 years ago because of its respected reputation for research and engineering," said Burns. "I stayed because of the people and to be part of a values-based culture with a passion for innovation and a deep commitment to customers. To join Anne in leading Xerox's global team is a true honor. I have tremendous pride in this company and am confident we have the best people and the best products and services to aggressively drive our growth strategy, winning in the marketplace and building value for our stakeholders."