Zia Eftekhar, a 40-year veteran of the lighting industry, has been named Chief Executive Officer of Philips Professional Luminaires North America, effective Jan. 1, 2010, according to a company statement.
Eftekhar is currently CEO of the Philips Lightolier Group, the largest business within Philips Professional Luminaires. Since 1992, he has been the President of Lightolier and a Director of the The Genlyte Group, the publicly traded parent of Lightolier acquired by Philips in 2008.
Eftekhar has played a key role in the integration of the Genlyte businesses into Philips. In his new role, he will lead the drive to further grow Philips’ leadership position in professional lighting systems and solutions in North America.
His contributions to Lightolier have included introducing new business services such as the Energy Services Group, and meaningful technological innovations that reflect the demand for energy-efficient lighting. It is a challenge he now welcomes on a larger scale.
“I am honored to lead the Professional Luminaires business in North America, as we redefine what is possible in our industry," says Ektekhar. "With our talented team and our steadfast commitment to enhance people’s lives through light, we will continue to innovate around our customers’ needs and grow our leadership position.”
Eftekhar will succeed Kaj den Daas, a 33-year veteran of Philips Lighting, who will continue as Chairman of Philips Lighting North America and concentrate on supporting the company’s legislative activities and participation in industry associations.
