Former Avast CEO Vince Steckler, 1958 - 2021

Rhea-AI Summary

Avast mourns the loss of its former CEO, Vince Steckler, who tragically passed away in a car accident on June 15, 2021, at the age of 62. Joining Avast in 2009, he transformed the company into a global cybersecurity leader, growing revenues from $20 million to over $800 million and spearheading the $1.3 billion acquisition of AVG Technologies. His leadership was pivotal in taking Avast public on the London Stock Exchange in 2018. Known for his dedication and philanthropy, Vince's contributions will be remembered fondly by employees and the tech community alike.

Positive

• Steckler led Avast's growth from $20 million to over $800 million in revenue.
• Spearheaded the $1.3 billion acquisition of AVG Technologies.
• Took Avast public on the London Stock Exchange in 2018.

Negative

• The sudden passing of a key leader may impact company morale and strategic direction.

PRAGUE and LONDON and EMERYVILLE, Calif., June 17, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Avast today announced that its former CEO, Vince Steckler, passed away in a tragic car accident in Irvine, California, on June 15, 2021, at the age of 62.

Vince Steckler joined as CEO of the Czech company in 2009 and stayed for over a decade at the helm during which time he led the transformation of the business into a global cybersecurity leader serving over 435 million customers around the world.

He was the architect of Avast's rapid growth during his tenure, driving strategic M&A for growth, most notably with the $1.3 billion acquisition of close competitor, AVG Technologies. Under his leadership, Avast grew from a company with under $20 million in revenue to over $800 million. In 2018, he took the company public with a listing on the London Stock Exchange FTSE index. He will be missed and remembered by the many Avast employees who have worked with him over the years.

Known for his dedication to Avast and rigorous focus on innovation and results, Vince Steckler was also a strong believer in an inclusive world, both at Avast and more widely. After he left Avast, through the charity he and his wife established, he continued to contribute through philanthropy, including support for the Magical Bridge Foundation initiative and helping to establish the Center for Responsible, Ethical, and Accessible Technology at his Alma mater, University of California, Irvine.

Ondrej Vlcek, CEO, Avast, said, "The news of Vince's sudden passing is devastating and words cannot express the loss this is to all of us at Avast. Vince was a role model, sharing wisdom from a long career in technology and security and setting the pace by always demanding the best from himself and others. He was a leader, a mentor, and a friend with a unique sense of humor that we loved about him. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his wife and children at this difficult time. He will never be forgotten."

Before joining Avast, Vince Steckler was the Senior Vice President of Worldwide Consumer Sales at Symantec Corporation, where he was in charge of worldwide multi-channel consumer sales valued at $2.0 billion. Prior to this, he had 20 years of experience in software development, systems analysis and engineering, and business development. Vince Steckler was an alumnus of the University of California, Irvine, from which he held two B.S. degrees, one in Mathematics and the other in Information and Computer Science.

John Schwarz, Chairman of Avast's Board, said, "I am deeply saddened by Vince's passing. Vince was an extraordinary personality, passionate about his work, and achieving exceptional levels of success in his career. He was a distinguished leader within the cybersecurity industry and how he shaped Avast continues to influence the company. Vince was also a valued colleague and friend to me, and we worked closely together over many years. My thoughts are with his family."

Vince Steckler is survived by his wife, Amanda, and children. Condolences can be sent by post to Avast headquarters at Pikrtova 1737, 140 00 Praha 4-Nusle, Czech Republic, or via email condolences@avast.com.

About Avast:
Avast (LSE:AVST), a FTSE 100 company, is a global leader in digital security and privacy. With over 435 million users online, Avast offers products under the Avast and AVG brands that protect people from threats on the internet and the evolving IoT threat landscape. The company's threat detection network is among the most advanced in the world, using machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies to detect and stop threats in real time. Avast digital security products for Mobile, PC or Mac are top-ranked and certified by VB100, AV-Comparatives, AV-Test, SE Labs and others. Avast is a member of Coalition Against Stalkerware, No More Ransom and Internet Watch Foundation. Visit: www.avast.com.

Avast Communications: PR@avast.com

View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/former-avast-ceo-vince-steckler-1958---2021-301314835.html

SOURCE Avast

FAQ

What were Vince Steckler's contributions to Avast?

Vince Steckler significantly grew Avast's revenues and led the acquisition of AVG Technologies.

How did Avast perform under Vince Steckler's leadership?

Under Vince Steckler, Avast's revenue grew from under $20 million to over $800 million.

When did Vince Steckler pass away?

Vince Steckler passed away on June 15, 2021.

What impact might Steckler's passing have on Avast's stock performance?

His passing may affect company morale and strategic direction, potentially influencing investor sentiment.

What was a notable achievement of Vince Steckler at Avast?

A notable achievement was leading Avast's successful IPO on the London Stock Exchange in 2018.