Vision Critical Gets New Shareholder and CRO

Research community and survey technology specialist Vision Critical has secured a $3.5m share investment from Difference Capital Financial. The firm has also appointed former OMERS Ventures MD Derek Smyth as its first Chief Revenue Officer (CRO).

Smyth became a Vision Critical Board member in 2012, when Vision Critical received a $20m investment from OMERS Ventures. Commenting on the share purchase, Executive Chairman Angus Reid said Difference Capital's involvement would help further his firm's 'high-growth plans'.

Smyth (pictured) brings more than twenty years' venture capital and technology industry experience to the new role. Prior to joining OMERS in 2001, he was MD of venture capital firm Bridgescale Partners and a Partner at Edgestone Capital. Before this, he was CEO of mobile personalization specialist Bridgewater Systems (purchased by Amdocs), and COO of e-commerce solutions firm Ironside Technologies (purchased by SSA) where he was responsible for global sales, marketing, product and professional services.

In his new role, Smyth will work with Vision Critical's sales and marketing teams on global go-to-market strategies. Group CEO Scott Miller comments: 'Derek's track record is impeccable, and his customer-centric approach aligns well with our core philosophies. We are fortunate to have his expertise and leadership to drive our growth and capabilities to the next level.'

Web site: www.visioncritical.com .