UPDATE 1-Symantec beats Street view as new CEO begins turnaround

Boston, Oct 24 - Symantec Corp, the top maker of computer security software, reported results ahead of Street expectations as its new chief executive began a turnaround effort following the firing of his predecessor in July.

The company, which has seen its stock languish for years, also disclosed that its global sales chief, William Robbins, had stepped down from that post and will be leaving the company. CEO Steve Bennett will directly manage the company's salesforce.

Symantec reported profit, excluding items, of 45 cents per share, handily beating the average analyst forecast of 38 cents, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S.

Revenue rose 1 percent from a year earlier to $1.7 billion.

Symantec shares were quoted at $18.45 in extended trade, up 6.2 percent from their Nasdaq close of $17.37.