… And Losing CEO Mike Klayko Who Resigns

The Brocade Communications Systems, Inc.‘s board of directors and CEO Michael A. Klayko announced today that Klayko intends to resign from his role as CEO once a successor is identified by the board and a transition is completed.

The board has formed a search committee and will retain an executive recruiting firm to identify the best candidate to lead the next phase of Brocade’s growth.Klayko will continue to serve as CEO of Brocade during the search.

Brocade’s chairman, Dave House, said: "We want to thank Mike for his more than seven years of service as CEO. He has led us through two major acquisitions and has positioned us as a technology leader and world-class provider of networking solutions. We wish him the best and appreciate his continued service to Brocade as the company works to identify the right leader to assume his role."

House continued: "The board will prioritize the search process in order to facilitate a seamless transition as expeditiously as possible. In doing so, the board will consider all qualified individuals. In the meantime, we remain focused on the business and enhancing shareholder value."

Klayko stated: "Decisions like these are never easy, but I believe it is the right time. The company is in a great position financially, and our product pipeline will continue to strengthen and clearly separate Brocade from other networking providers. Until a successor is identified, I remain focused on my role as CEO and on continuing to execute our strategy."

 Klayko was named CEO and a member of the Brocade board of directors in January 2005, responsible for the company’s vision, strategic direction, and operational management.

He has more than 30 years of experience in the storage, computer, and telecommunications industries. Previously he was VP of WW Sales at Brocade with responsibility for global sales activity and the development of programs designed to increase sales force effectiveness and support partner relationships. He also served as the VP of Marketing and Support and VP of OEM Sales.

He joined Brocade in January 2003, following the acquisition of Rhapsody Networks for which he served as CEO and president. Prior to that, Klayko was EVP at McData, where he managed the company’s internal operations and drove business development and marketing strategies. He also held positions at EMC, HP, and IBM after beginning his career at Docutel and TRW. Klayko currently serves on the boards of PMC-Sierra, Inc. and the Silicon Valley Leadership Group.

He has a Bachelors of Electronic Engineering Technology from the Ohio Institute of Technology.