By Patrick Avenell

SYDNEY, NSW: Microsoft Australia and New Zealand has today appointed a new retail sales director for its Entertainment and Devices Division (EDD). Andy Coughlin, who has worked at Microsoft for over a decade in the United States, is the new appointee. He will be looking after the Xbox 360 console and games, Xbox Live Service, PC hardware peripherals and office software.

“When the opening was presented to me, I jumped at the opportunity to come to Australia,” Coughlin said.

“I have always wanted to share my experiences working for Microsoft in the US with a team in a new region, and Australia is a country bristling with both beauty and opportunity.

“At Microsoft we are gearing up for the biggest year yet, with the success of Windows 7, the launch of Office 2010 and ground-breaking entertainment products including the highly anticipated Xbox 360 exclusives: Alan Wake, Fable 3 and Halo Reach.”

Coughlin, holds a Bachelor of Science, Business Administration from the University of Maryland. This is the same alma mater as fellow Terrapins, Larry David, Carl Bernstein and Jim Henson.

Welcoming Coughlin to Australia is EDD Microsoft Australia regional director David McLean.

“Andy comes into this role with a wealth of experience and expertise during the most exciting period in our history.

“We’re delighted to have added someone with so much talent to the local team to ensure 2010 is the best year to date for Microsoft retail.”