BIZ BUZZ.

Byline: -- Compiled by Ben Jauron

The MSM Consulting Group of Chatsworth recently hired Steve Lair of Simi Valley as its vice president of sales and marketing. In his new role, Lair will be responsible for developing and exploring new technology products and services designed to enhance clients' efficiency and profitability. Before coming to MSM, Lair was president and CEO of TRG in Orange County. Previously, he worked as national vice president of sales and marketing for Toshiba, Texas Instruments, Acer and more. MSM is a computer manufacturer in the San Fernando Valley and provides computer-systems service and support for small to mid-size businesses.

An online magazine industry publication, min magazine, and University of Mississippi professor Samir Husni recently recognized Calabasas-based Statement magazine as one of the top 15 "hottest magazine launches" of 2007. Publisher and Calabasas-resident Richard Bleiweiss launched Statement in February as a nationwide offshoot of his luxury lifestyle magazine Calabasas, which debuted in 2004. The magazine has since had actresses such as Jamie Pressly, Mary-Louise Parker and Elizabeth Hurley on the cover, and an upcoming issue will feature Christina Applegate. Min magazine and Husni, recognized as a leading expert in the magazine industry, will determine the "hottest launch" winner at a ceremony at New York City's Tavern on the Green in November.

DataDirect Networks Inc., a Chatsworth-based provider of intelligent open storage platforms, recently appointed Chatsworth resident Kevin Rubin as its chief financial officer. Rubin came to DataDirect from MRV Communications in August, where he was chief financial and compliance officer. A certified public accountant with more than 12 years of experience in finance, information technology, human resources and international operations, Rubin began his career with the global accounting firm Arthur Anderson.

WCBF-Six Sigma Solutions, a leading provider of health care conferences, recently named Providence Health Services-California Region of Burbank one of the three finalists for the Global Six Sigma Award in health care. The award honors the most outstanding organizational achievements through the application of Six Sigma methodologies of improving business performance. Providence has used Six Sigma methodologies to eliminate defects, increase efficiency and reduce waste, as well as to improve clinical performance. Providence has four hospitals in Los Angeles County: Providence Saint Joseph in Burbank, Providence Holy Cross in Mission Hills and hospitals in Torrance and San Pedro.

In addition, the American Nurses Credentialing Center recently awarded Providence Holy Cross magnet status for nursing excellence. Only 11 hospitals in California and 5 percent of hospitals nationwide have attained this status. The ANCC program is based on quality standards of nursing and indicates Holy Cross has maintained "exemplary staffing ratios, supports continuing education and competence for nurses and empowers nurses by having them participate in the decision-making process as it relates to nursing." Magnet recognition lasts for four years.

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(color) LAIR