By Patrick Avenell

SYDNEY: Panasonic has moved swiftly to replace Jan Ergen, after yesterday’s announcement that he has joined Sony. The new appointments are both internal, with Matt Pearce taking over as product manager (TV) and Sophie Barton becoming the new product manager (DVD and Blu-ray).

Pearce was formerly in Barton's new role, whilst Barton has moved from her old post as product manager (microwaves). In their new roles, both Pearce and Barton will report to Panasonic category marketing manager (home AV and TV), Adam Roberts.

Speaking about the appointments is Panasonic Australia director (consumer electronics), Paul Reid. “[Pearce’s promotion] is well deserved given his excellent work in introducing Australia’s first Blu-ray Recorder to the market.

“Barton is a valuable addition to the Home AV team, having worked consistently to rejuvenate and … grow Panasonic’s market share in the microwave category.”

In addition to filling Barton’s now vacated position in microwaves, Panasonic is also looking for an assistant product manager (TV) to support Pearce.

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