Former EDS executive joins Lucent

Lucent Technologies on Monday said it has tapped a former Electronic Data Systems executive to become president of its worldwide services group. Lucent said John Meyer, formerly president of information technology management services at IT services giant EDS, would begin his new job April 1. Meyer will be replacing John Heindel, who is leaving Lucent to pursue other opportunities. Meyer will report to Robert Holder, Lucent's chief operating officer.

"Lucent is increasing its focus on its services business, and John's success and years of experience in leading a large professional services organization will help Lucent leverage and expand its already considerable pool of talent and expertise in this area," said Lucent CEO Pat Russo. Lucent, which also makes networking systems for communications service providers, offers services such as systems integration and equipment installation.