WithersRavenel’s Successful ESOP Transition Spurs Addition of Three Independent Directors to Board

CARY, N.C. - Aug. 31, 2015 - PRLog -- Having recently completed a highly successful ESOP transition, WithersRavenel has expanded its board with the addition of Ken Ewan, Frank Gozzo, Ph.D. and Cal Hackeman as independent directors. WithersRavenel selected these seasoned executives after a comprehensive process to help drive the continued growth of the now-employee-owned company. They will join internal Directors Chan Bryant, P.E.; Mike Dickerson, P.L.S.; Jim Canfield, P.E.; and co-founders Tony Withers, P.E. and Sam Ravenel, P.E.

Ken Ewan has more than 40 years of experience in managing major capital planning, design and construction projects for leading international companies in the chemical, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. He impressed WithersRavenel with his strong leadership, teambuilding, project management and organizational skills. These skills, combined with his previous Board experience, will help keep the company focused as it continues to cross major milestones and achieve corporate goals.

Frank Gozzo holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering and serves as the current President & CEO of Noverant, Inc., an online compliance management company that focuses on professional licensing, credentialing, and continuing education for the aviation, life sciences, education, and homeland security industries. Mr. Gozzo brings an entrepreneurial attitude and a wealth of knowledge in training and compliance management services—as well as extensive Board experience—that will guide WithersRavenel as the company continues to enjoy growth and development.

Cal Hackeman is a retired partner at Grant Thornton LLP, one of the top six global audit, tax and advisory organizations. Mr. Hackeman led the firm’s focus on servicing public and private dynamic, growing organizations based in the U.S. in many difference industries. In addition to serving on numerous Boards of Directors and chairing multiple committees, he advised a diverse group of clients through the implementation of ESOPs similar to the one now used by WithersRavenel. Mr. Hackeman will counsel the company so that it may reap the greatest possible reward from transitioning to an ESOP structure.

The process of choosing a Board of Directors originated several years ago, before the transition to an ESOP structure, as part of early strategic planning efforts. The search for three independent Board members began in earnest in the fall of 2014. WithersRavenel was assisted by Phil Alfano, the Research Triangle Park Chapter of the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD), and the current board members and shareholders.

From an initial pool of 50 qualified applicants WithersRavenel narrowed the selection to ten candidates, and then again to four individuals. These four finalists were interviewed to determine not only if they fit the company culture, but could also bring the experience and expertise in designated areas of corporate affairs. Of these four, Mr. Ewan, Mr. Gozzo, and Mr. Hackemen were invited to join the Board. After conducting their own due diligence of the company, all three were won over by the corporate culture and the positive attitude of the employees.

President/CEO Jim Canfield says, “I am extremely excited to have these three gentlemen join our board to assist with our continued growth as an ESOP company and continue our successful history. I believe the future is bright for all stakeholders associated with WithersRavenel.”

Together, the new Board members bring a wealth of experience in corporate governance, finance, project management, leadership development, ESOP administration and Board participation. They began executing their duties at the board meeting in May 2015.