BUSINESS OBJECTS SLIPS INTO THE FAST LANE WITH DYNAMIC NEW SALES DIRECTOR

Sydney, Australia - July, 2003 -- Global business intelligence software company, Business Objects, has revved up its Australian/NZ sales strategy and increased headcount with the appointment of new Sales Director, Tim Sommers, from its UK branch.

An avid adventurer and champion motorcyclist in his spare time, Sommers is a natural high achiever. Sommers is tasked with aligning the company's business development initiatives with the growing demand for intelligence software in Australia. He stresses that the intelligence issue is increasingly being recognised by many businesses as a crucial factor in better understanding their operations, achieving tangible ROI and enhancing performance views, as well as generating new revenue opportunities.

A recent Ovum report stated that intelligence is likely to be one of key considerations for IT software buyers in 2003.

"I believe the business intelligence and data analytics market has a bright future here," said Sommers. "It's very inspiring to be at the head of a team that is contributing significantly to the development of this local market. Our whole focus is to help Australian businesses maximise their operational performance and market competitiveness. My vision is to ensure customers have the best possible mix of people and product ingredients in place to help meet those challenges," he continued.

His previous role in the UK saw him achieve 363% of yearly sales targets, generating multi-million revenue levels and global industry recognition awards. He was responsible for the development and management of high profile business ventures with major global brands such as AstraZeneca and BAE Systems.

"We are delighted to have him on board here. He's such an energetic influence on our people that I think he will well and truly fan the flames of our local sales and business development initiatives," said Brenton Smith, Managing Director, Business Objects ANZ. "He's one of those rare individuals that lets his passion and energy for life seep into his work", he continued.

Previously, Sommers also spent seven years as Managing Director of UK IT Services company The Eureka Group, where he was responsible for company restructure and significant increase in revenue and profit levels.

He was also a director for PTC, a billion dollar enterprise specialising in data management solutions.