PALO ALTO — VMware has named Robin Matlock, its VP of corporate marketing, as acting CMO as the software company retools its marketing and comms functions.

Matlock steps into the role left vacant by Rick Jackson, who transitioned into a new position as SVP of global enablement in March. Jackson was acting as interim CMO during the search, but has since departed VMware, confirmed a company spokesperson.

Since Matlock took over last week, the CMO search has ended. She has been running corporate marketing at VMware for four years.  

VMware is also actively searching for a new VP of global communications, who will report into the CMO. Terry Anderson, who was previously in the role, left the company earlier this year. 

The internal shuffling comes amid a US PR agency review that is now in its final stages. It is understood three agencies have been shortlisted from an initial round that included more than 20 firms, ranging from boutiques to large players.

When asked whether the changes signal a strategic shift, Matlock told the Holmes Report she plans move forward with the marketing and comms initiatives already in place. Adding, "VMware is making aggressive progress against our objectives and marketing is no different." 

Joan Stone, senior director of influencer relations, is leading the agency search. A decision is expected next week.

VMware has steadily worked with OutCast since 2009 when the business boomeranged back to OutCast after a brief stint with FleishmanHillard. OutCast has declined to repitch the business.