TEMPE, Ariz., Nov. 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Health and security assistance provider MedAire, Inc. today announced that James E. Lara, 57, has been appointed the Company's President and Chief Operating Officer effective immediately.
The firm's founder and current president, CEO and Chairman, Ms. Joan Sullivan Garrett, said that by transitioning the president's position and its operational duties to Mr. Lara she will be able to provide greater focus on driving the Company's visionary leadership, high level promotion and strategic growth.
The appointment of Mr. Lara and Ms. Garrett's strategic focus further strengthens MedAire's governance structure and is consistent with the Company's philosophy of accountability and delivery of its strategic plan. Ms. Garrett commented, "Our Board is committed to the timely, orderly and sustained improvement of our firm's operational efficiency and fiscal results."
"Mr. Lara is a highly talented leader with the necessary skill-sets and experience for managing businesses of MedAire's size and complexity both within and outside the United States," Ms. Garrett said.
Mr. Lara served on MedAire's Board of Directors from 1996 until early 2004 and has a 33-year track record of improving corporate financial results. His leadership has brought success to both emerging entrepreneurial enterprises as well as large corporate organizations in the aviation, specialty retailing and wholesale distribution sectors. "He is committed to growing shareholder value through the achievement of solid operational and fiscal results," said Ms. Garrett.
Mr. Lara commented, "I am honored that Joan and the Board have appointed me to lead MedAire to the next level of success. MedAire has significant opportunities for leveraging its previous successes to achieve higher levels of profitability and converting its innovations to maximize value for shareholders, clients and industry partners." Mr. Lara said he will focus immediately on improving the cost and operational efficiencies to yield an improved EBITDA and cash flow, while continuing the growth of the top line.
Ms. Garrett also announced that Mr. Kjell Andreassen, MedAire's current Executive Vice President/COO, will be leaving the firm to pursue other opportunities. "Since joining MedAire in 1997 Mr. Andreassen has been a significant force in the company's growth, achieving untold milestones over the years. His leadership and accomplishments are very much appreciated and recognized," commented Ms. Garrett.
About MedAire, Inc.
Established in 1986, MedAire offers fully integrated health and security solutions including remote emergency assistance services, evacuations, training and web-based education programs, specialized resources such as medical and security kits and a network of western-standard medical clinics in Asia.
MedAire provides services to international business travelers and expatriates, commercial airlines throughout the world, corporate flight departments, government agencies, military and maritime operators. MedAire, listed under MDE on the Australian Stock Exchange, can be found on the Internet at http://www.medaire.com/.
MedAire, Inc.CONTACT: Brant Galloway of MedAire, +1-480-333-3700,bgallow@medaire.com
Web site: http://www.medaire.com/
