06.08.2020, 13:48
ServiceMaster Names New CEO
ServiceMaster has completed its search for a new Chief Executive Officer with the appointment of Brett T. Ponton who is expected to assume his new position on or before 1 October 2020.
Ponton takes over from Chairman, Naren Gursahaney, who has held the post of Interim CEO after the position was vacated by Nik Varty in January.
Credited with leading a successful transformation strategy at Monro, Inc. (the largest independent operator of tire and auto service retail stores in the United States) where he currently serves as President and CEO, Ponton will also join the ServiceMaster Board of Directors when he begins his tenure as CEO.
Ponton has almost 25 years of experience with distributed service organizations, including leading both company-owned and franchise operations. He has a strong track record of implementing operational excellence and process improvement initiatives at those companies, leading to enhanced customer experience, stronger company culture, and improved employee retention. He is a results-oriented CEO with a history of driving both organic growth and successful acquisitions.
Announcing the appointment, Gursahaney, said: “With his deep and relevant experience, Brett is the right leader to further the transformation of ServiceMaster’s core Terminix business, strengthen our operational excellence, and oversee the next phase of the Company’s growth and creation of shareholder value.
“His embrace of a servant leadership mentality and clear understanding of the key role frontline employees play in ensuring excellent customer service make him a great fit for ServiceMaster.”
Ponton said: “I am honored to assume the role of ServiceMaster’s CEO and excited to join its strong and experienced management team in leading the Company forward.
“With the cultural and operational transformation at Terminix and the strategic review of ServiceMaster Brands underway, the Company is well positioned for short and long-term growth, and I look forward to safely getting out in the field to connect with our team members.”
Mark Tomkins, ServiceMaster’s Lead Independent Director, added: “We want to thank Naren for his stewardship of the Company and oversight of the executive search process.
“Under his leadership, ServiceMaster has done a tremendous job of navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, while continuing to provide essential services to our customers. We look forward to a smooth transition and Naren’s ongoing contributions as Chairman.”
About Brett Ponton
Since being named CEO of Monro in 2017, Ponton has implemented a transformational strategy to improve growth, profitability and customer service across an organization encompassing 8,500 employees (including 6,000 technicians), as well as 1,250 company-owned stores, 100 franchised locations, and a commercial B2B business. Prior to joining Monro, Mr. Ponton served as CEO of American Driveline Systems (2013 – 2017), where he led a strategic turnaround of the company resulting in a successful sale to a private equity sponsor. Before American Driveline, he was CEO of Heartland Automotive (2009 – 2013), the nation’s largest operator of Jiffy Lube locations, where he grew the number of retail locations to 600 from 390 and oversaw the company’s successful sale.
He previously served as Managing Director, Asia-Pacific, for Veyance Technologies, an engineered products business based in Shanghai, China, and Melbourne, Australia. Mr. Ponton began his career at Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., where he rose through the ranks over 16 years to Vice President, Marketing. While at Goodyear, he served as Vice President & General Manager, Goodyear Retail, a company-owned retail store division with 800 stores and 8,000 employees.
Ponton holds a BSc in Finance degree from the University of Nebraska.
