Second generation takes the helm at Ruud Lighting

Ruud Lighting Inc. (Racine, Wis.): Christopher Ruud was promoted to president, a role that his father, Alan Ruud, held since founding the company in 1982. As president, Christopher will oversee all U.S.-based business units and operations. Alan will retain his role as chairman and CEO. Christopher began working for Ruud Lighting in 1986, holding positions of increasing responsibility from sweeping floors to manufacturing assembly and eventually moving into administrative roles. He was promoted to manager of continuous improvement in 1997, then to vice president two years later, adding human resources to his list of responsibilities. In 2004, he was named executive vice president and assumed responsibility for national accounts, sales and marketing. The company is preparing for a transition from traditional lighting to a new LED platform. Christopher was instrumental in building the infrastructure for the launch of BetaLED in 2007.