Farr's unique experience in worldwide manufacturing and management processes along with his knowledge and insights running a complex global business are expected to help strengthen IBM leadership.
The IBM Board of Directors has elected David N. Farr, Emerson Electric Co. chairman and CEO, to its Board effective January 1. Farr, 56, has served in a wide range of leadership positions at Emerson and has been the company's CEO since 2000.
Emerson Electric (NYSE: EMR) is a diversified global manufacturing and technology company. Farr has served the firm in a wide range of leadership positions during the past 20 years in areas ranging from manufacturing and strategic planning to sales and general management. He also worked four years as president of Emerson's Asia-Pacific business in Hong Kong, and he led Emerson's Astec joint venture before returning to head the company's Process Management business. Before being named chief executive officer, Farr spent a year as Emerson's chief operating officer. He has been chairman of the Emerson Electric Board of Directors since September 2004.
"We are very pleased that David Farr will be joining the IBM Board of Directors," said Samuel J. Palmisano, IBM chairman, president and chief executive officer. "David has unique experience in worldwide manufacturing and in management processes, and his knowledge and insights in running a complex global business will make a significant contribution to IBM," Palmisano said.
A native of Elmira, N.Y., Farr received his B.A. degree in chemistry from Wake Forest University and earned an M.B.A. from Vanderbilt University. He is a member of The Business Council, based in Washington, D.C., and is on the board of directors of the US-China Business Council. Farr is also chairman and past president of Civic Progress, an organization of chief executives from leading companies in St. Louis who work to promote the region.
LATEST COMMENTS
MC Press Online