The International Society of Automation (ISA) recently announced the appointment of automation industry veteran Mary Ramsey as its new executive director. 

Ramsey, who has been serving as ISA's interim executive director since January of this year, has more than 25 years of industrial automation experience. She specializes in leadership, change management and strategy development/execution. Prior to serving as ISA's interim executive director, she was the senior vice president of Process Automation, Americas Region, at Schneider Electric, where she was responsible for a $550 million profit/loss statement and 1,200 employees. She has also served as senior vice president of Industry Business USA and senior vice president of Industry Business Europe within Schneider. Prior to joining Schneider Electric, Ramsey held several business development roles within Matrikon International; Instrinsyc; Intellution, Inc.; and GE Fanuc, among others. 

"Mary is a dynamic, experienced leader with a deep understanding of automation and the industries we represent," said 2018 ISA President Brian Curtis. "She has proven her ability to think strategically and help the organization align its priorities during her tenure as interim executive director, and we are thrilled to welcome her on board permanently." 

A search committee comprised of nine ISA members and leaders from around the world worked to review dozens of resumes and conduct a series of interviews over the last several months. The committee's work resulted in a recommendation to appoint Ramsey. 

"The search committee has dedicated significant time and effort to make this decision. We are confident that Mary's leadership and extensive experience will serve the organization, its members and the automation community well for years to come," said Executive Search Committee Chair Steve Pflantz. 

"It's an honor to serve as ISA's executive director," said Ramsey. "I'm excited to work with staff, members and leaders to bring a fresh perspective to this important organization. ISA is truly unique in its ability to bring the automation community together to solve difficult technical problems and provide leadership on critical issues facing our industries. We have a lot of work to do, and with the help and support of individuals and companies around the world, we will advance ISA's mission and create a successful future." 

Ramsey holds a bachelor of science in electrical engineering (BSEE) degree from the University of Kentucky and a master of business administration (MBA) degree with a specialty in finance and strategy from Loyola University.