In a press release, HP have announced that executive vice president and general counsel Michael J, Holston is to leave HP to "pursue other opportunities."

The information from HP also tells us that "prior to his joining HP, Holston supported the company as external counsel for more than 10 years on a variety of litigation and regulatory matters."

"Mike has been an exceptional leader at HP and a great contributor to the company's mission," said Meg Whitman, HP president and chief executive officer. "The entire company wishes him well in his future endeavors."

HP also announced that David W. Healy, partner and co-chair, Mergers & Acquisition Group, Fenwick & West LLP, will act as HP's general counsel on an interim basis. Healy represented HP on its recent acquisition of Vertica and its agreement to sell its Video Collaboration business unit to Polycom. Healy will oversee all legal activities during the interim period.

The company further announced that a formal search is underway for a replacement. Candidates from both inside and outside the company will be considered.

The full press release is available online.