$1.5 billion SunPower, a California-based manufacturer of high-efficiency solar cells, solar panels, and solar systems, has hired Eric Branderiz as vice president and corporate controller, reporting to the CFO. In this key role, Branderiz will oversee all accounting and financial reporting for the company.

Branderiz brings more than 17 years of financial expertise to SunPower, including financial accounting management, strategic business planning, and cash and working capital management. Prior to joining the company, he held the position of vice president, corporate controller, and head of subsidy operations for Knowledge Learning Corporation, where he drove all financial accounting and reporting processes.

Previously, Branderiz served in several capacities at Spansion, a company that makes flash-memory products. While there, he most recently as corporate vice president, corporate finance, corporate controller, tax & treasury, and was instrumental in driving the company through its initial public offering. During his tenure, he was responsible for the company's financial accounting, financial reporting, cost accounting, internal controls, and global shared accounting and analysis.