Microsoft Corp. has appointed John Vassallo as Vice President, EU Affairs. Vassallo joins Microsoft from General Electric, where he served as Senior Counsel and Director of European Affairs.

In this new Microsoft position, Dr Vassallo, who will also serve as Associate General Counsel for the company, will be responsible for leading the company’s EU Corporate Affairs and Regulatory team.

Dr Vassallo, who officially begins in his new role on July 1, said: “Microsoft is a world leader in software technology and investing a lot to advance its relations across Europe. I look forward to helping lead the company in this area and strengthening the ongoing constructive dialogue with the EU policy and regulatory community.”

Microsoft Senior Vice President and General Counsel Brad Smith commented, “John is an outstanding professional with broad experience in EU public affairs who has a track record of developing strong partnerships and leading through constructive engagement. We are committed to strengthening our relationships in Brussels and throughout the European Union, and we’re delighted to have John join us in this new and important role.”

A Maltese national, Dr Vassallo has a wealth of experience gained through a distinguished career encompassing legal, corporate and diplomatic appointments. At GE, he was responsible for heading the European Affairs office in Brussels, as well as serving as the business executive in charge of GE Benelux and Malta business units.

Before joining GE, Dr Vassallo served as ambassador of Malta to the European Union, NATO and Belgium. A lawyer by training, Vassallo spent 15 years in an active business career (covering financial, sales and managerial responsibilities) with Swedish multinational construction company Euroc Corporation, before going to Brussels as a director of the European Cement Association.