Loss-making Fronde finds a new CEO to lead cloud push

Wellington-based ICT services company Fronde has appointed former Fisher & Paykel Appliances executive Anthony Belsham to fill its vacant CEO position.

Fronde chairman Jon Mayson said Belsham was appointed after an extensive executive search to lead its trans-Tasman and Philippines-based operations. Belsham will be based in Auckland.

Fronde announced an "extremely disappointing" NZ$3.35 million before tax loss in July and former chief executive Ian Clarke stepped down soon after.

Mayson said Fronde sought a leader with experience in global markets, sound business expertise and a strong customer focus.

Belsham was a client of Fronde for many years, so he "knows our company, knows our challenges and knows our potential", Mayson said.

"Fronde is transitioning to become a cloud business, assisting clients with digital transformations and it's great to welcome a CEO who understand and supports our vision."

Belsham began his career writing code to control robotics and automated machinery and over 24 years progressed through a series of increasingly senior roles at Fisher & Paykel Appliances to his most recent role as General Manager Global Quality.

"I am excited to be joining the team at Fronde, which I think has a bright future," Belsham said. "We have some challenges to address in the short-term, but I believe we can continue to evolve as a business and achieve profitable growth."

Fronde's shares are traded on the Unlisted platform. It is a Salesforce Platinum Partner, 5-Star NetSuite Solution Provider, Amazon Advanced Consulting & Channel Reseller Partner, and Google for Work Premier Partner.