Peterman joined Comtechs board in May after a board-led search for an independent director.
Comtech Telecommunications has appointed Chairman Ken Peterman as President and Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Michael Porcelain, effective immediately.
Porcelain has also resigned from Comtechs Board of Directors but will be available to assist in the transition as needed.
Peterman joined the Comtech board in May 2022 following a national search in January 2022 with the aim of expanding the boards industry experience and strengthening its executive leadership expertise. With a career that spans 40 years, Peterman is credited with having led major organisations in the creation of innovative, technology-enabled solutions.
A thought leader in defence and aerospace space, Peterman has worked across multiple technology sectors in both commercial and government markets at companies including Viasat, where he most recently served as president of the government systems segment of Viasat, ITT/Exelis, Collins Aerospace, Raytheon and SpyGlass Group.
Speaking about the appointment, Lead Independent Director Lawrence Waldman, said: Based on the Boards extensive interactions with Ken since the beginning of 2022, we are confident Ken is the right leader to accelerate Comtechs ongoing transformation. The refreshed Board is excited to support Ken as he executes on his strategic vision for the company.
Ken Peterman added: I am genuinely excited about Comtechs enormous potential. Thanks to our dedicated employees, our mission-critical technology portfolio, and our customer-centric culture, I believe Comtech is uniquely positioned to capitalize on the significant investment, steepening growth trajectories and continual renewal cycles taking place in assured communications, space and satellite networks and next-generation 911 failsafe communications infrastructures. Id like to thank Mike for his hard work and long-standing dedication to Comtech as well as for the recent groundwork he established to set the stage for the companys exciting next chapter. I look forward to engaging more deeply with our employees, customers, partners, and shareholders around the world over the coming weeks.
Judy Chambers, Head of the Nominating and Governance Committee of Comtech Board, stated: Were grateful to Mike for his many contributions to the company over the past 20 years in a variety of key positions. We thank him for his longtime commitment to the company, its customers, and its employees.
Porcelain commented: It has been an honour to lead Comtech. After serving more than 20 years as a senior executive and positioning the company for its next chapter, it is the right time for me to take a breather and spend time with my family before moving on to my next endeavour. I appreciated the opportunity to work with the Board to set the company on a new path, and I know our platform, technologies and teams are in good hands. I intend to remain a shareholder of the company and will be rooting for Comtech every step of the way.
