Tech Data CFO retires after 23 years

CLEARWATER -- Jeffery Howells is retiring as Tech Data Corp.'s chief financial officer after 23 years in the position.

He'll be replaced by Charles Dannewitz, a senior vice president and CFO of the Americas for the Clearwater technology distributor. Dannewitz not only will assume Howells' senior level executive position June 5, but also his seat on Tech Data's board of directors.

“Jeff has been instrumental in the company's success during a period of significant growth and change,” says Bob Dutkowsky, Tech Data's CEO, in a release. “His expert guidance and sound fiscal management have helped us navigate the ever-changing IT landscape, create the company's efficient operating model, and drive its financial performance.”

Howells joined Tech Data in October 1991 as vice president of finance, and was promoted to CFO in early 1992. He earned his appointment to the company's board of directors in 1998.

Before he joined Tech Data Howells spent 11 years at what is now PriceWaterhouseCoopers.

Dannewitz joined Tech Data in February 1995 as vice president of taxes, earning a promotion to a senior role in that department five years later. He took over full worldwide treasury responsibility for the firm in July 2003.

Tech Data trades under the Nasdaq symbol TECD. After the announcement, shares dipped slightly Tuesday to $57.92.