Avid Technology Inc.’s board of directors has appointed Jeff Rosica as CEO of Avid, effective immediately. He replaces Louis Hernandez, Jr., whose employment the board has terminated due to violations of company policies related to workplace conduct. Former CEO Hernandez also resigned from his position on the Avid board of directors and Nancy Hawthorne has been elected chairman of the board.
Rosica, who takes on the CEO mantle while retaining his role as president, joined Avid in early 2013. He is a well-known industry veteran with more than 30 years’ experience in broadcast, media and entertainment. Prior to his role as president, he served as SVP, chief sales and marketing officer for the company.
Hawthorne said, “Jeff’s deep experience as an industry expert coupled with his impressive knowledge of Avid’s business and strategy make him the natural choice to lead the company.”
Avid president and CEO Rosica said, “I am honored and excited for this opportunity to lead Avid through this important moment in the company’s history. The outlook for Avid is strong, and I look forward to working with the leadership team, the board and our incredibly talented employees as we execute on our strategic priorities and continue our journey to be a best-in-class company and leader in our industry.”
With the assistance of independent external legal counsel, a special committee comprising independent members of the board of directors conducted a thorough investigation into allegations of improper non-financially related workplace conduct by Hernandez. After reviewing the findings of the special committee’s investigation, the board of directors unanimously concluded that the findings warranted immediate termination of Hernandez’s employment.
Hawthorne said, “The board is committed to the company’s core values and to upholding an environment of the utmost respect and integrity. We remain confident in the strategy and the long-term business plan of the company.”
