The board of directors of PreSonus Audio Electronics has announced that chief operating officer (COO) Stephen Fraser has been named the company’s new chief executive officer (CEO), effective immediately, while founder and former chief strategy officer (CSO) Jim Odom has been named president.
Board chariman Kevin Couhig states, “We believe Stephen is ideally suited to lead PreSonus forward as chief executive. In his five years as COO, he has developed highly effective strategies backed by strong operating skills and relentless execution. Outgoing CEO Jim Mack will be a ‘tough act to follow’ but we’re confident that Stephen will continue a great track record as CEO.
“At the same time,” he continues, “we’re delighted that founder Jim Odom has chosen to take an even more active day-to-day role, concentrating on building relationships at the sales, distribution, and technology levels.”
Fraser’s career began in corporate banking at Bankers Trust Company, and he held senior positions at Credit Du Nord and Banque Bruxelles Lambert, where he was head of corporate finance. His post-banking career included senior positions as ICE PLC managing director and president of U.S. operations of sister company Lenlyn Limited.
In 2004, Fraser joined Behringer Group, where he was president of the North America subsidiary before moving to Singapore as Behringer Group COO and then chief of staff. He joined PreSonus in January 2010.
“I have the privilege of working with a very strong management team here at PreSonus,” says Fraser. “Combined with our unique technology and an outstanding industry reputation, I anticipate strong growth in the future.”