Lightspeed Commerce Inc., the one-stop commerce platform for merchants around the world to simplify, scale, and create exceptional customer experiences, has today announced the appointment of Liam Crooks as Lightspeed’s new  Managing Director for the EMEA Region.

Formerly Lightspeed’s Senior Vice President of Hospitality, UK-born Crooks brings over 15 years of experience within the technology industry to the new position. He joined Lightspeed in early 2022, after spending 10 years at Yelp as Vice President of Sales.

Crooks’s role will focus on driving profitable growth across the EMEA region, expanding the company’s current customer base and supporting customers through a period of difficulty exacerbated by current economic conditions.

"This is an exciting time to be leading Lightspeed’s EMEA business," said Crooks. “Lightspeed not only has a fantastic product offering and an incredibly talented team, but a wide customer base that spans everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to local retail businesses – and we hope to continue supporting all of them in doing what they do best.

“Since joining last year, I have been extremely impressed with the leadership team at Lightspeed, and I fully believe in this company’s vision. Lightspeed is uniquely positioned to address EMEA market needs at a critical time for the retail and hospitality sectors. I look forward to building upon the company's success, helping even more businesses across the region thrive." 

Crooks will also be tasked with leading the company's sales and marketing teams, as well as working closely with the product development team to ensure that Lightspeed's offerings meet the needs of EMEA customers.

JD Saint-Martin, President of Lightspeed, said: "Liam's wealth of experience and track record of leading successful teams make him the ideal person to lead our EMEA business. Together, we will focus on driving growth within the region and continue to help small and medium-sized businesses streamline operations through best-of-breed technology."

Previously based in Chicago, Crooks will head up Lightspeed’s London office at the beginning of May, acting as a core component of the company’s global strategy.