Comtech has announced that its Board of Directors has appointed John Ratigan as President, Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board, effective October 28, 2024. Mr. Ratigan has been serving as Comtech’s interim CEO since March 2024. In addition, the Comtech Board appointed Kenneth (Ken) H. Traub as an independent director to the Board, effective October 31, 2024.
Chief Executive Officer Appointment
Mr. Ratigan is an accomplished executive with over three decades of senior leadership experience and expertise in the global satellite technology sector. He joined Comtech in November 2023 as the Company’s first Chief Corporate Development Officer. Mr. Ratigan was previously CEO and President of iDirect Government, LLC, a provider of satellite communications solutions to the U.S. government, and ran East Coast operations for Fairchild Data Corporation and EF Data Corp., in both instances overseeing substantial growth and value creation.
“Over the past several months, John has been an important voice in charting Comtech’s strategy to transform into a pure-play satellite and space communications company,” said Mark Quinlan, Chair of the Comtech Board. “Under his leadership, the Company has initiated several programs designed to improve operations, including an intensive review of Comtech’s Space & Satellite Communications product portfolio to identify the most strategic and high-margin revenue opportunities. The Board is confident that John is the right leader to oversee the execution of our new strategy as we work diligently to unlock value for shareholders.”
Mr. Ratigan’s appointment as CEO follows a comprehensive process conducted by a leading executive search firm.
Mr. Ratigan said, “I am honored to serve as CEO during this important time for Comtech. When I stepped into the interim role in March, I did so with great conviction in the possibilities ahead. I saw then – and still see – great technology, great people and a tremendous opportunity. Comtech has market-leading products, a strong customer base and a compelling path to drive profitable growth in our large and growing end markets. We are acting with urgency to build a stronger, more competitive company focused on providing best-in-class satellite and space communications solutions.”
New Independent Board Director
Mr. Traub brings deep experience as a CEO, independent director, active investor and consultant to numerous companies at times of critical business transition and transformation, with a successful track record of driving strategic, operational, financial and governance improvements to protect and enhance shareholder value.
“I am thrilled to be joining the Comtech Board of Directors at this critically important time for the Company,” said Mr. Traub. “I look forward to working with the Comtech Board of Directors and management team to address current challenges and capitalize on the significant opportunities available to the Company.”
Mr. Quinlan added, “Ken is widely regarded as an expert in overseeing business transformations and has a long history of successfully guiding companies through strategic transitions that benefit shareholders. On behalf of the full Board, we welcome Ken as our newest independent director and look forward to working closely with him as we position Comtech for the future.”
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