Key Cisco Player Exits Company

Cisco announced this week Mike Volpi, senior vice president and general manager of the company's Routing and Service Provider Technology Group, is resigning his position to pursue other opportunities. Although exactly what those opportunities are remain a mystery, news reports say Volpi is not stepping down to take a job with a competitor. Volpi's resignation was effective immediately, however, the 13-year Cisco employee reportedly promises to aid the company with the transition.

Speculation abounds that Volpi left because it appeared less likely over time that he would ascend to CEO, the position John Chambers currently holds. Volpi's resignation also comes as is Cisco reorganizing its business units. However, Volpi insists his decision was not driven by anything happening within the company and that he was not asked to leave Cisco. Instead, he has alluded to a desire to create a business of his own.

Mike Volpi leaving Cisco should have no real long term impact, and very little short term impact. Cisco has always been careful about executive departures and replacement planning, I do not expect that there will be any issues. Steven Schuchart NWC Contributing Editor