named Jim Bidzos executive chairman, on an interim basis. Additionally, the board of directors elected Mr. Bidzos president and chief executive officer, on an interim basis, replacing William A. Roper, who resigned from the company and the board of directors effective June 30, 2008.

As the company’s founder and initial CEO, Mr. Bidzos has served as either chairman or vice chairman of the board of directors of VeriSign since April 1995. Mr. Bidzos also served in both senior-executive and board level capacities with RSA from 1986 to 2002.

"VeriSign remains committed to our strategy of focusing the company on its core businesses while continuing the divestiture of all non-core operations, which will proceed as planned. We continue to expect that most sale transactions will be substantially completed this year,” said Mr. Bidzos. "As chairman during the last year, I have been actively involved with VeriSign's management team and I now look forward to capitalizing on the company's growth opportunities within its core businesses and new opportunities that align with the company’s core competencies."

Mr. Bidzos said, “Over the last year, Bill Roper led the development and implementation of the company’s strategy to focus the company on its core businesses. He’s also improved the company’s capital structure with the repurchase of more than 28 percent of the shares outstanding. We appreciate Bill’s contributions in implementing this divestiture strategy, which the board and the company are fully committed to continuing.”

Mr. Roper said, “I have enjoyed my association with VeriSign immensely. The success of our strategy of focusing the company on its core capabilities in Internet infrastructure is reflected in improved operating and financial results. I wish the best for my former colleagues as I move on to the next chapter in my career."

Image courtesy of Verisign website