iRobot, a leading company in consumer robotics, has revealed the successor to its former CEO, Colin Angle. Gary Cohen, previously holding executive positions at Timex and Qualitor Automotive, will assume the role of CEO, following Angle’s tenure that lasted from 1997 until January of this year.
Cohen’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for iRobot. Earlier this year, following regulatory intervention that halted Amazon’s proposed acquisition, the company underwent significant restructuring, resulting in the reduction of nearly a third of its workforce.
Since pioneering the robotic vacuum in 2002 with the launch of Roomba, iRobot has faced challenges in expanding its product range beyond this flagship offering. Despite efforts to diversify, the company has encountered intensifying competition, particularly in the lower-priced segment of the market.
Andrew Miller, chairman of iRobot’s board of directors, has expressed confidence in the progress made by the company amidst its ongoing transformation following the events surrounding Amazon. Miller emphasized Cohen’s leadership qualities and extensive experience in areas such as commercial growth, product innovation, and global distribution as assets that align with iRobot’s future goals.
Cohen’s background diverges from that of iRobot’s founders, who are primarily roboticists with roots in academia. However, his expertise in corporate leadership suggests a potential shift in strategic direction for the company, possibly involving tough decision-making processes as it navigates its path to profitability.
In response to his appointment, Cohen expressed eagerness to collaborate with iRobot’s board, leadership team, and employees to revitalize the consumer robotics category, drive innovation, and bring new products to market.
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