Lehigh alum William Amelio was named Chief Executive Officer of worldwide technology distributor Avnet in September.
Amelio, a chemical and biomolecular engineering graduate, assumed the role on an interim basis in July before being formally appointed as CEO on September 6, 2016.
“For me, Avnet is all about passion and possibilities," said Amelio. "We have an experienced management team and an engaged workforce comprised of talented employees who are dedicated to serving our customers, suppliers and partners ... Avnet will undoubtedly be positioned to achieve profitable growth for our shareholders and deliver upon the ever growing market potential in our industry.”
"Avnet is fortunate to have someone of Bill’s character and experience," said William Schumann, Chairman of the Board for Avnet. "He brings energy and focus to the business, and the board unanimously agreed that making him the permanent CEO was in the best interest of our customers, employees and shareholders."
Amelio brings over 35 years of industry experience to Avnet, including his role as CEO and President of CHC Group LTD, a global helicopter services provider. Vancouver-based CHC is the largest helicopter service company in the world, specializing transportation to offshore oil and gas platforms as well as helicopter repair and overhaul.
Before joining CHC, Amelio was CEO of Lenovo from 2005 to 2010, helping the organization to integrate IBM’s Personal Computer business and introduced the Lenovo brand around the world, quintupling product sales.
Amelio was senior vice president, Asia-Pacific and Japan, for Dell Inc. from 2001 to 2005, assisting with responsibility for strategy and operations across the region. During his tenure, sales more than doubled in the region and service levels improved significantly, as measured by third-party customer satisfaction metrics.
Amelio also holds a master's degree in management from the Sloan Master's Program at Stanford University.
Avnet is one of the world's largest global distributors of electronic components, computer and IT solutions, embedded technology and services.
