Benzinga | Aug 23, 2021 09:04AM EDT

Byrna Technologies Names Mike Gillespie Chief Operating Officer

Byrna Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:BYRN) today announced that Mike Gillespie has been named Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective August 23, 2021. In his newly created role, Mr. Gillespie will report directly to Bryan Ganz, Byrna's Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and will have responsibility for overseeing Byrna's day-to-day global operations. Specifically, Mike will be responsible for coordinating the activities of Byrna's critical departments including research and development, supply chain, engineering, manufacturing and distribution. His goals will be to: (1) improve product quality; (2) reduce costs; (3) shorten lead times; (4) bring new products to market more quickly; (5) reduce the risk of supply chain disruption; (6) enhance operating efficiencies; and (7) increase overall customer satisfaction.

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"We are extremely pleased to have Mike join our senior leadership team, particularly given his demonstrated passion for our mission," said Mr. Ganz. "Our ability to scale operations and continue to bring to market exciting and relevant new products is critical in order to maintain a strong growth trajectory. Over the course of his more than 30-year career, Mike has demonstrated the ability to do just that. His extensive experience and expertise in product engineering, driving operational efficiencies, growing sales, and getting the best out of people gives him the necessary toolset to make Byrna a world class company. Perhaps more importantly, with Mike focused on the operational aspects of the business, I can now focus more of my time on the strategic aspects of the business such as identifying acquisitions, developing strategic partnerships, and landing significant customers. By having Mike assume a number of my day-to-day responsibilities, I will also have more time to interact with Byrna's key constituencies, including our customers, vendors, employees and shareholders."

Mr. Ganz continued, "I am confident that with Mike aboard we now have the right team to take Byrna to the next level by driving continuous improvement in all areas of the business, with the goal of enhancing Byrna's profitability, reputation and ultimately, shareholder value. On behalf of our entire management team and our Board, I'd like to welcome Mike to Byrna Nation."

Mr. Gillespie commented, "Worldwide, there is great interest in personal-safety solutions that provide effective self-defense without the drawbacks of using lethal arms, and I believe that Byrna got it right. The Byrna team is smart, innovative, and laser-focused on providing the most compelling non-lethal security products on the planet, and I am proud to be joining such an outstanding and essential company."