Microsoft poaches SIA's Forshaw

• Microsoft names corp comms director
• Stephen Forshaw joins from Singapore Airlines
• SIA replaces Forshaw with Nicholas Ionides

Regional - Microsoft has appointed Stephen Forshaw as its corporate communications director for the Asia-Pacific region. He will take up his new role late next month. 

In turn, SIA has replaced him with Nicholas Ionides as vice-president of public affairs who joins from Reed Business Information. 

In this role, he will lead the company's external outreach efforts - including media relations, public affairs and employee communications - across the region's 15 markets.

Previously from Singapore Airlines, where he was primary spokesperson, Forshaw has also held a senior ministerial advisory post with the Government of the Australian Capital Territory in Canberra.

"His deep understanding of the region and proven track record for discipline and excellence make him ideally suited for this role," Emilio Umeoka, president of Microsoft Asia Pacific said.