Software giant Microsoft announced on Wednesday its plan to open a new research and development center in Tel Aviv, in addition to the one already operating in Haifa since 1991.
Microsoft TV Division Vice President Moshe Lichtman was appointed to oversee the overall technology activities of the company in Israel.
In his new position as president of research and development in Israel, Lichtman will concentrate on significantly increasing the company's R&D; investments in Israel, the establishing of the new center in Tel Aviv, and cooperating with high-tech companies and venture capital in Israel.
In addition to the R&D; center in Haifa, Microsoft also operates a sales and service center in Ra'anana, just north of Tel Aviv. Overall, Microsoft employs about 400 employees in Israel and is expected to hire dozens more in the first phase of the new Tel Aviv center.
The research and development centers in Israel will fulfill an important and ever-growing role in the company's global R&D; strategy, said Steve Ballmer, Microsoft's CEO.
Ballmer added that considering Lichtman's vast experience in product development and management, and along with his vision, he is well suited to advance Microsoft's R&D; in Israel and to establish cooperation between Microsoft and the high-tech and venture capita in Israel.
Lictman said on Wednesday: "I'm excited over the opportunity to lead Microsoft's expansion of technology in Israel. I'm a true believer in the unique talent and creativity of Israeli scientists and engineers."