Emerson Network Power has announced the appointment of Rob Johnson as CEO and officially commenced a campaign to rebrand the standalone company as Vertiv.
Platinum Equity acquired the business from Emerson in a transaction valued in excess of US$4 billion. Emerson also retained a minority interest in the company.
New CEO Rob Johnson was most recently an operating partner at Kleiner Perkins Caulfield & Byers. He also spent 10 years at American Power Conversion (APC), where he eventually became president and CEO.
“Rob has a unique blend of industry knowledge, operational acumen and entrepreneurial spirit,” said Bryan Kelln, partner and president of portfolio operations at Platinum Equity.
“This is a transformational opportunity for the company and we believe Rob is the right leader to grow the business as we establish a culture focused on speed, innovation and customer service.”
Vertiv will build on its portfolio of product and service offerings for power, thermal and IT management capabilities it previously offered as Emerson Network Power, including its flagship brands ASCO, Chloride, Liebert, NetSure and Trellis.
Platinum Equity partner Jacob Kotzubei said that Platinum Equity’s M&A and operational resources, and the firm’s strong relationship with Emerson, will benefit Vertiv in the short and long term.
“We will support Vertiv’s growth and product innovation every step of the way, both organically and through prospective add-on acquisitions,” said Kotzubei.
“This is our second partnership with Emerson and we have had great success together. We look forward to a seamless transition and an exciting future for Vertiv and the customers it serves.”