Kuipers’ responsibilities involve representing Microsoft on public policy issues such as intellectual property rights, interoperability and standards, privacy, security and Internet safety and telecommunications.

Microsoft says that he will also work alongside the technology industry to promote a policy environment that will foster growth for the benefit of New Zealand.

Kuipers  explained, “I am looking forward to collaborating with others in the technology industry to foster innovation and economic opportunity. Technology has already had an enormous positive impact on the lives of New Zealanders and on the country’s economy.

“We believe the ICT industry will continue to play a strong leadership role, including in important public policy discussions, and I’m thrilled to be able to represent Microsoft in that dialogue.”

Kuipers previously held the position of Legal Counsel for Microsoft New Zealand.

Paul Muckleston, Managing Director for Microsoft New Zealand, added, “Waldo has been with Microsoft for the last five years and is a valued member of the team. He has deep expertise on a range of public policy issues of interest to Microsoft and the wider ICT industry and has been a respected voice within our leadership team. I’m delighted to see him taking on this new role. It is a testament to his strengths that despite advertising for this role externally we have chosen to recruit internally.”