Schneider Electric Appoints Drees President in U.S.
Schneider Electric, a global specialist in energy management, announced that Jeff Drees will assume the role of U.S. president, effective June 1. In this role, Drees will be accountable for driving the growth and profitability within the company's Power, Buildings and Energy businesses within the United States, as well as coordinating the energy efficiency and solutions initiatives across all businesses.
Drees replaces Amy Huntington, who, after 22 years with the company, has decided to leave the company to devote more time to personal and charitable interests.
"Having worked closely with Jeff over the last few years, I have seen firsthand his ability to drive growth in our business and motivate and inspire his team," said Chris Curtis, president and chief executive officer of Schneider Electric in North America. "We are uniquely positioned to help solve our energy dilemma and Jeff has the passion and leadership needed to lead these efforts in our company and with our customers."
Drees previously served as president of the Buildings business in the Americas, where he was responsible for overseeing business performance in the United States, Canada, and Central and South America. Drees joined the company in 2001 and has served in various roles, leading the partner division and Energy Solutions sales, and working with the corporate global office in partner recruitment and acquisition analysis.
Prior to joining Schneider Electric, Drees held management and engineering positions at Caterpillar Inc. and Honeywell Inc. and served as a technician for the U.S. Air Force. He earned an associate's degree in electrical and mechanical engineering from the Air Force and a bachelor's in electronics engineering/management from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Ill. He also has a master's degree in business administration from Aurora University in Aurora, Ill.