Adobe Systems installed Matthew Thompson, a former Borland Software sales executive, atop its sales and partner operations to oversee "all customer facing functions," the company announced Jan. 2.

Thompson, a 20-year industry veteran, replaces Stephen Elop as senior vice president of worldwide field operations, the same title he held during his three years at Borland, where he oversaw that companies transition from a channel to a direct sales organization, Adobe said in a prepared statement.

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He replaces will manage all customer-facing functions, including sales, field marketing, customer care, Adobe Consulting and partners.

Adobe said Thompson is tasked with leading the company's efforts to capitalize on long-term growth opportunities and align its operations with key customer segments.

Adobe assured resellers Thompson was not there to dismantle its channel as he had at Borland.

There is no "strategic change in direction for us," said an Adobe Spokesperson. "We do consider it one of Matt Thompson's major accomplishments at Borland. The ability to build new sales models and teams is always an asset in a sales leader."

"Matt is passionate about serving customers, and his experience with diverse business models and product lines make him well suited to the unique needs of our global customer base," said Shantanu Narayen, Adobe's president and chief operating officer, in a statement. "He has proven his ability to manage complex global technology businesses, and he is the perfect choice to spearhead the next wave of Adobe's sales growth."

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David Packer will take Thompson former post at Borland, that company announced Jan. 2. Packer was previously vice president of the Americas.