Kodak Names Former Xerox Exec, Barry Lathan CEO of Encad Subsidiary
Press release from the issuing company
ROCHESTER, N.Y.--Sept. 18, 2003-- Eastman Kodak Company announced today the appointment of Barry R. Lathan as Chief Executive Officer of Encad, Inc. A wholly owned subsidiary of Kodak based in San Diego, California, Encad is a leading innovator in wide-format printing technology.
Lathan's appointment reflects Kodak's recent realignment of its operations and leadership team to accelerate growth in commercial and consumer imaging markets. As part of the reorganization, Kodak created a Commercial Printing operation, consisting of Encad, along with two joint ventures, Kodak Polychrome Graphics (KPG) and NexPress Solutions LLC. KPG provides the graphic arts industry with a range of conventional and digital applications, such as computer-to-plate and conventional lithographic plate products, digital printing applications, color workflow tools, consulting services and Kodak branded graphic arts films. NexPress was formed in 1998 to develop, manufacture and market digital production printing solutions and materials. Kodak's Commercial Printing operation also includes an initiative to enter the digital asset management market and publishing services, which involves managing the distribution and output of digital assets, such as images.
Lathan, 55, will report to James Langley, President, Commercial Printing, Eastman Kodak Company. Langley joined Kodak in September 2003 after 30 years at Hewlett-Packard Company, all in the printing and publishing arenas.
"Barry is a great addition to our management team," said Langley. "He has the proven ability to build businesses, coupled with the vision and strategic thinking to help Kodak execute on our growth plans in the markets for on-demand color printing and network publishing."
Lathan possesses a wealth of experience in the wide format industry. Most recently, he was founder and CEO of Xerox ColorgrafX Systems, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Xerox Corporation and a market leader in wide format digital printing systems. Lathan enjoyed a 30-year career with Xerox, starting in various sales and marketing positions and over time assuming increasing responsibilities as Western Area Vice President and National Sales Manager. Eventually, he rose to the position of Vice President & General Manager of Xerox Engineering Systems.
"I am excited about the opportunity to join Encad and be part of the broader management team that will grow Kodak's Commercial Printing business," said Lathan.
Lathan received a B.S. in Business Administration from Ohio State University and is a graduate of the Stanford University Executive Marketing Management Program. He has served on the board of directors of Xerox Canada, Inc., the Orange County Urban League and the Ohio State University Alumni Advisory.
Lathan replaces Brad Kruchten, who has been named General Manager of Kodak's Wholesale and Online Services, within Consumer & Professional Imaging.