Kobo snaps up former Apple sales director

Kobo is hiring former Apple Sales Director Jean-Marc Dupuis in order to try and boost its presence and e-reader sales in Europe.

The firm is making a push in the Europe, the Middle East, and Africa markets (EMEA), and as part of the plan, is relying on the former Apple exec to boost its digital bookstore and e-reader business within the region.

Dupuis is being hired as Kobo's new EMEA managing director. Credited with being instrumental in nearly doubling the company's revenue in Europe, the former Apple employee--with roughly 25 years of experience in the tech industry--will be working with Kobo's EVP and general manager of devices to lead Kobo's "expansion strategy" across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Michael Serbinis, CEO of Kobo, said that the addition will help push the e-reader company forward in 2013, with "European expansion being a top priority." The company claims that it owns 20 percent of the e-reader market and has users in 190 countries.

Dupuis said:

Kobo is a fast-growing force in the digital sector in a time when digital media consumption and the appetite for e-reading continue to grow. I look forward to bringing my experience and knowledge to the Kobo team to further grow the brand.

The executive has previously worked for Apple, Creative Labs, Borland, SPC, Multilog, and Michelin. Dupuis has confirmed the new appointment via his LinkedIn profile .