Verisure (Securitas Direct) appoints new Chief Technology Officer to support growth through innovation

The company is pleased to announce the appointment of Thomas Kiessling as new Group Chief Technology Officer. His appointment will be effective from 15 March, 2015. Thomas will report directly to Group CEO Austin Lally.

Verisure Securitas Direct is Europe’s market leader in offering app-controlled home control systems through its Verisure and Securitas Direct brands, featuring professionally monitored fire and intrusion alarms and 24/7 response services. Thanks to a strong focus on customers and service, its fast growing customer base in Europe and South America is among the most satisfied in the industry. The company is a leading innovator in the rapidly changing connected home space.

Thomas Kiessling will be leading innovation, product development and technology across the Group. Thomas joins from Deutsche Telekom, where he has spent the last four years heading the Products and Innovation area. Thomas brings extensive experience in technological and industrial sectors such as telecommunications, travel and gaming, in various geographical regions including France, Spain, the UK, the US and Sweden.

Group CEO Austin Lally, said "I am delighted that such a heavy-weight leader in the field of innovation as Thomas has decided to join us on our exciting journey. We believe that it is a fundamental human right to feel safe and secure. That is why we bring protection and peace of mind to families and small business owners. Connected and Protected. There is still major growth potential since penetration of monitored alarms in Europe is low. Innovation and technology will continue to play a key role in growing the industry. Thomas's experience and track record will further strengthen our leadership and capabilities. We are proud to have him on board."

Designated Group CTO Thomas Kiessling said: “I am excited to join Verisure Securitas Direct as CTO. I’m joining a very successful business with incredible growth potential. We have excellent products. We are privileged already to serve over 1.7 million customers in 14 countries. We know that we can serve many more. We are the clear European market leader in our industry. We use technology and personal service to offer peace of mind and protection to families and small business owners. We are committed to further drive our innovation programme and to make sure that consumers see a Verisure and Securitas Direct home as a connected home and a protected home. Our goal is a further acceleration of industry penetration in Europe."

Stefan Goetz, Chairman, said: “I am delighted to welcome Thomas to the company as our new CTO. Thomas has a very strong track record of business success in a wide range of industries and geographical regions. Thomas will further strengthen our innovation and technology programme and play a key role as we enter our next phase of growth".