Bob Muglia, a 21-year veteran at Microsoft, has been named president of the software giant's Server and Tools Business.

Muglia was previously senior vice president of the server and tools group, and is credited with helping to build the unit into a £13bn business.

During his time at Microsoft, Muglia has served in a number of positions, ranging from managing the development of the MSN network through to tablet PCs. His role at the helm of the Server and Tools Business involves looking after a portfolio including Windows Server, SQL Server, Visual Studio, and the firm's virtualisation and systems management products.

Muglia said in an interview posted on Microsoft's web site that he had never expected to be made a president at the firm, but was looking forward to the challenge. He is confident that the product set and a strong team will help see the business through tough economic times.

"We have a set of great businesses that collectively help to power the engine of our customers in their businesses," he said.

"Obviously if you look at Windows Server, SQL Server, our management products, our tools, and now our emerging security products, all of these things are very important for our customers, and have great revenue earning potential for the company.

"But the thing that I'm honoured about is the recognition of the great work that the team has done, and seeing the team continuously work to improve itself and build better and better products."

Muglia expects to see increased demand for his department's products, particularly in its database, virtualisation and services business.

"Virtualisation and the opportunity for customers to lower their administrative costs, and lower the capital costs, and deliver a great set of IT capabilities again at a fraction of the cost, is another great example," he said.

"Or look at our security business and the fact that we are offering customers a very cohesive solution that will cost them a small fraction of what they would pay going to our competitors."