Mitel (Nasdaq:MITL), a leading provider of unified communications software solutions, today announced its board of directors has appointed Richard McBee chief executive officer of the company effective January 17, 2011. Mr. McBee is also expected to be appointed to Mitel's board of directors at the next board meeting.
Mr. McBee, with more than 20 years experience in telecommunications, most recently served as President of the Communications & Enterprise Group of Danaher Corporation. In this role, he was responsible for annual sales in excess of $700 million derived from carrier, enterprise, and SMB markets via both direct sales and channel partners. Mr. McBee joined Danaher in 2007 as President, Tektronix Communications, following the acquisition by Danaher of Tektronix. During his 15 years with Tektronix, he held a variety of positions including Sr. Vice President and General Manager, Communications Business Unit; Sr. Vice President of Worldwide Sales, Service and Marketing; and Vice President of Marketing & Strategic Initiatives. Mr. McBee holds an M.B.A. from Chapman School of Business and Economics and graduated from the United States Air Force Academy with a Bachelor of Science in 1986.
"Rich brings with him exceptional operational leadership and a proven ability to drive growth and increase market share," said Terence H. Matthews, chairman of Mitel's board of directors. "We are excited to have Rich lead our talented management team and position the company for long-term sustainable growth."
"I am thrilled to join a world-class organization that has a proven track record of driving technological innovation," said Mr. McBee. "It is an honor to lead Mitel as it enters its next phase of growth backed by a comprehensive suite of IP-based solutions and a strong network of global partners."
Richard McBee succeeds current Mitel CEO, Don Smith, who on September 2, 2010 announced that he would step down from the position.
