Ex-CHH chief appointed Microsoft CFO

Former Carter Holt Harvey chief executive Chris Liddell has been appointed Microsoft's new chief financial officer.

Mr Liddell will take up the post on May 9, from his current position as CFO at Carter Holt's US parent International Paper.

In his new role Mr Liddell will lead Microsoft's global finance organisation and will have responsibility for accounting and reporting, strategic planning and analysis, treasury, tax, audit, and investor relations.

Mr Liddell said in a statement he was attracted to Microsoft by its high levels of passion and optimism.

"Given Microsoft's track record of innovation, outstanding people and proven ability to create value, the opportunities that lie ahead are nearly limitless," he said Mr Liddell stepped down as Carter Holt's chief executive at the end of 2002 and became International Paper's CFO in February 2003.

- NZPA