Communications Engineering Company (CEC) has announced the appointment of Michael Tierney as its next chief executive officer, as stated in a press release from CEC. Kimberley Lehrman, the current CEO, will retire at the end of 2024 and join the company’s board of directors.
Mr. Tierney is expected to join CEC in mid-November and assume the CEO role at the start of 2025. CEC is a family-owned, privately held master systems integrator founded in 1946, and headquartered in Hiawatha.
As stated in the release, Mr. Tierney brings experience from his family’s systems integration business, where he contributed to the firm’s growth by focusing on operational efficiency, platform management, and talent development.
“The systems integration business is attracting a great deal of capital and market attention due to the ever-increasing applications of technology to help businesses innovate, become more efficient and improve financial performance,” Majid Abai, chairman of the CEC board of directors, said in the release. “CEC is evolving with the market opportunities, and we are pleased to have Michael join us at this exciting crossroads.”
Mr. Tierney also oversaw a merger and exit plan after more than seven years in the business.
Following the merger, he continued in an executive role at Bluum, the newly formed company, supporting growth and profitability initiatives. He played a key role in building vendor partnerships, which are important in the integration industry.
Mr. Tierney is known for emphasizing accountability to financial results as part of his leadership approach, the release states.
“CEC has a rich family heritage and culture, enabling the company to prosper and become a great workplace. Michael shares this common background and will be a great culture fit,” CEC owner Jim Smith said in the release. “As we launch into the next generation, Michael brings experience in leading through growth and market change. It’s exciting to think about the future possibilities!”
