One of the big surprises in EFI's most recent earnings release was the announcement that its President, Fred Rosenzweig, would be retiring after 19 years of service to the company. For those of you who know and/or have done business with Fred over those years, you know how sorely missed he will be at EFI. I spoke to him today, and he indicated that for him, one of the hardest parts is leaving the people, both inside and outside the company. He is not yet planning something new, but with his usual focus, is working to make the next two quarters at EFI the best ever, and he will continue part-time as a consultant to the company during 2012.
Fred told me, "This position is 24/7/365, with lots of requirements for customer and employee interaction. On top of that, I have traveled 200,000 to 250,000 miles every year for the last four years, and it does take a toll. We have done a lot in the last five to six years. We have changed the company, we are positioned well, and I wanted to make sure the business was doing well and no one would even notice I went out the door."
Well, Fred, I am sure you have accomplished those things in spades, but people will definitely notice!
He added, "It has been a great run. If someone had told me back in 1993 when I joined the company what was going to transpire, I would have thought they were crazy. EFI has been a great company and has allowed me to do things I never would have been able to do elsewhere. These years have been good for me, and good for the organization. We have a seasoned management team that is ready to step in, and I think the business itself will continue to prosper."
Fred will be missed, both personally and professionally, by a lot of people. He has promised to keep us updated as his future plans evolve. Even though he will be around through Graph Expo, SGIA, etc., through the end of the year, I hope those of you who have enjoyed working with him will let him know, and will wish him well by leaving comments in this space.
Discussion
By John Schloff on Jul 26, 2011
Fred,
congrats on your retirement. You have positively touched so many in our industry. All the best to you,
John
By Jeff Jacobson on Jul 26, 2011
I do not think I have ever posted a note on an industry public forum, however, with Fred's announced retirement, I felt compelled to do so. This is a great industry made up of great people. Unfortunately, over the years, we have lost some great ones and Fred is certainly one of them. He is one of the most respected people I know across our industry and he was always in the front when it came to trying to make our industry even better. When it came to taking credit, Fred would always move to the back of the pack, as he wants others to take the credit. Fred, I will miss having you in our industry. You are a great person. Congratulations on all of your successes and best wishes for health, happiness and prosperity!
By Charlie Corr on Jul 26, 2011
Fred, you will be missed. I always enjoyed working with you. You worked to advance the industry and EFI and did a great job. Thanks so much and best wishes in the future.
By Frank Steenburgh on Jul 26, 2011
Fred,
You have been a great leader in our industry.
Your business smarts, work ethic, personal integrity and business integrity are exemplary. You and Guy have built a great company. EFI and our industry will miss you. You are a friend. Please stay in touch.
Frank Steenburgh
By carl gerhardt on Jul 26, 2011
Fred,
Ditto what the others said. From the time we first got acquainted when you keynoted our convention to the work with EDSF I have found you to be one of the most sincere, honest and capable executives in the industry.
I am not far behind you but will miss your contribution to our industry.
Best wishes for a happy retirement and in whatever you do.
By Brenda Kai on Jul 26, 2011
Fred,
All the very best to you from EDSF . On behalf of all the incredible scholarship recipients you and EFI have supported, and continue to support - THANK YOU!