Novell completes Cambridge Tech deal

Network software maker Novell has completed its acquisition of services provider Cambridge Technology Partners. At a shareholders meeting held Tuesday in Cambridge, Mass., shareholders controlling 60 percent of the company gave approval of the deal. As planned, Jack Messman, chief executive of Cambridge, has been named CEO of Novell. Eric Schmidt, formerly CEO of Novell, remains chairman of the Novell board. Cambridge becomes a subsidiary of Novell and retains its name, market presence and independence.

In March, Novell announced plans to acquire Cambridge in a $266 million deal. Cambridge has designated two of its board members, James D. Robinson and John W. Poduska, to take seats on the Novell board. Also, with the completion of the deal, Ron Foster, vice president of finance and controller at Novell will become senior vice president and chief financial officer. Foster replaces Dennis Raney, who will be leaving the company