Ecosphere Technologies Inc. announced that the company appointed John Brewster as chairman and CEO, effective immediately. Brewster succeeds Charles Vinick, who will remain on the board of directors.
Until August 2012, Brewster was president and CEO of NAES Corp. His background includes 35 years of experience in the power industry, including plant operations, early stage development, marketing and executive management. Until his appointment as CEO, Brewster served as a consultant to Ecosphere on energy applications for Ecosphere's patented Ozonix technology.
"John's corporate expertise and years of experience in the energy and environmental fields bring tremendous leadership to Ecosphere at precisely the time when the company is poised for expansion. John has worked with us as a consultant and knows the company well. I look forward to working with him on the board of directors and helping in every way I can," stated Charles Vinick, outgoing chairman and CEO.
Charles Vinick will continue to serve on the board of directors. Vinick joined Ecosphere in 1998, and has served on the advisory board and the board of directors. He was appointed executive chairman in 2010 and CEO in January 2011.
"This Company would not be where it is today without Charles' contributions," stated McGuire. "When Charles joined the Company in 1998, we were a small start-up with a great technology and tremendous potential. Charles helped guide us to our position of prominence today. We have an attractive business model, a vast technology portfolio, a great partner in Hydrozonix, recognized technology leadership, and numerous growth opportunities. We greatly appreciate Charles' contribution to Ecosphere."
During Brewster's transition to CEO, Barbara Carabetta will remain interim CFO. Although the company previously announced progress in the CFO transition, the board of directors believes the best interests of the company are served by deferring any CFO appointment until the CEO transition is complete.
Source: Ecosphere Technologies
