- Higher Art: Kana Communications, a Redwood City, Ca.-based provider of enterprise relationship management (ERM) software, appointed Art Rodriguez, Kana’s VP of finance, to the interim CFO position, effective immediately. Rodriguez has 15 years of experience in accounting and global finance, most recently at Hewlett Packard in the Customer Service & Support Group, HP’s $2 billion hardware support and services division.
- A Learned Financier: Epoch Biosciences, a developer of commercial chemistry applications in genomics and molecular diagnostics, appointed Bert Hogue as CFO. The Bothell, Wash.- based company said Hogue replaces Sanford Zweifach, who will continue to serve as president of the company. Prior to joining Epoch, Hogue served as CFO and secretary at Apex Learning, an online learning company.
- Interesting Concept: Conceptus a San Carlos, Ca.-based developer of a non-surgical permanent contraception procedure for women, on Wednesday named former software executive Glen Furuta as its CFO. He was formerly VP of finance and administration, and CFO of Solution Soft Systems, a privately held software company based in San Jose, Calif.
- Extra, Extra:Westport, Conn.-based, Xtra Corporation, an equipment and trailer leaser, announced that CFO Michael Soja has resigned. Xtra did not specify a reason for the resignation, but said that Soja had worked for the company for more than 26 years. The company did not say whether it has found a replacement for Soja.
- It’s a Wrap: Gift maker Russ Berrie and Co. named John Wille as CFO, succeeding Nicholas Truyens, who resigned in December after just five months on the job. Oakland, N.J.- based Russ Berrie said Wille, joins the company from Betesh Group, a designer of handbags, computer cases, and backpacks, where he also was CFO. Truyens left by mutual agreement in December.
- Hitting the Check-Out Line: Sobeys, Canada’s No. 2 grocer, announced that its CFO and EVP, Alan Rowe has left the company. In a brief statement, Sobeys, which recently announced that it will take a $ 33 million charge in its third quarter, said Rowe had departed after 14 years with the Nova Scotia-based grocer.
- The Record Maven: Mars Music, a Fort Lauderdale, Fla.-based seller of musical instruments, recording equipment and pro audio gear, announced that Michael Yackira has been named VP and CFO. Yackira has more than 25 years of financial and corporate experience, most recently as president of FPL Energy a subsidiary of FPL Group. He was formerly CFO of FPL and its subsidiary, Florida Power & Light Company.The company also announced that Bob Zobe, the former CFO, has been named VP and chief administrative officer.