ATLANTA, March 16, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EMS Technologies, Inc., today announced two key management appointments in its corporate office and in its SATCOM division that position the Company to maximize synergies and operational efficiencies.
EMS named Gary Hebb, EMS SATCOM's general manager since 2007, vice president of Innovation and Strategy, reporting to Neil Mackay, chief operating officer. In his new role, Hebb will focus on cross-divisional initiatives to build synergies within EMS's core and newly acquired businesses.
Replacing Hebb at the helm of EMS SATCOM will be Joanne Walker, who has worked nearly two decades for EMS's Ottawa division, and most recently was corporate vice president of Business Operations. She also will report to Mackay. Both appointments were effective Feb. 19.
"Gary has had a long history with EMS SATCOM, and his background and experience give him a strong understanding of EMS's corporate strategy and the ability to execute," says Mackay. "He will play a major role in building synergy with our existing and new businesses and help the company deliver compelling products and services to fuel EMS's growth."
Prior to his GM appointment, Hebb served as vice president of engineering and business development at EMS SATCOM. Under his engineering leadership, EMS SATCOM developed its important high-speed data terminal technology, which enabled EMS's successful entry into the airborne communications terminal market. He joined the Company as a satellite modem designer in 1990.
Walker joined EMS in 1990, and has held progressively more responsible roles related to manufacturing, supply chain management and operations. She was pivotal in helping EMS's fastest-growing business transition from aerospace research to product manufacturing operations. In this capacity, Walker led major advances in the division's inventory management and manufacturing processes.
Mackay commented, "With this economic downturn, the timing is right for someone with Joanne's skills to lead the SATCOM business. She brings with her significant operational and lean-manufacturing experience that will be critical to SATCOM's continued success in a challenging market climate."
Hebb's top priority is to move quickly to exploit near-term synergies within EMS divisions involved in wireless and satellite communications. Examples include creating new products from the combined technology base, engaging common customers, sharing EMS's engineering and support staff, and adopting common processes.
"With our core businesses and our new acquisitions, EMS has incredible resources and a vast diversity of experience. I'm excited personally about how much I'm going to be able to learn, as I dig in to understand all the business models, value propositions and best practices," Hebb said. "I'm sure we can leverage all our capabilities to find ways to better meet our customers' needs, and more effective ways to develop new products and provide better service."
In her leadership position at EMS SATCOM, Walker looks forward to building stronger partner and customer relationships and pursuing new markets in this new role, with the strategic help of Hebb.
"I am eager to tighten-up processes that will enable us to run more efficiently," says Walker, adding, "I also intend to empower EMS SATCOM's talented staff to have an even stronger voice to contribute to the direction of the company. I see this as a time of change. I am accountable, but hope to encourage an even stronger team spirit so we can all work together to achieve our common goals."
About EMS Technologies, Inc.
EMS Technologies, Inc. is a leading provider of wireless connectivity solutions over satellite and terrestrial networks. EMS keeps people and systems connected, wherever they are - on land, at sea, in the air or in space. Serving the aeronautical, asset tracking, defense, and mobile computing industries, EMS products and services enable universal mobility, visibility and intelligence. Visit www.ems-t.com for more information.
EMS SATCOM, a division of EMS Technologies, is a leading supplier of high-speed data communications equipment for a broad range of commercial and military aircraft. Applications include voice, e-mail, videoconferencing and Internet connectivity. Its satellite-based terminals, antennas and networking equipment are also deployed on vehicles and used by Search and Rescue organizations. Visit www.emssatcom.com for more information.
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