Griffon announces the retirement of Joseph Battaglia, appointment of Kevin McSweeney as president of Telephonics

Griffon Corporation of New York, NY (“Griffon” or the “Company”) announced on March 21 that Joseph “Joe” Battaglia has announced his retirement from Griffon’s subsidiary Telephonics Corporation (“Telephonics”), effective September 30, 2016. Kevin McSweeney, currently chief operating officer of Telephonics, will succeed Battaglia.

Battaglia, a defense industry veteran of more than 50 years, joined Telephonics in 1990, and has served as president for the past 21 years. During his tenure at Telephonics, Battaglia led the development of radars, IFF (Identification, Friend or Foe) and Air Traffic Management systems, helping to secure the company’s strong position in U.S. and international defense and civilian electronics markets. Following his retirement, Battaglia will remain with the Company in a consulting capacity.

Ronald Kramer, Griffon’s chief executive officer, said, “Joe has made significant contributions to Telephonics’ success over his distinguished career. Under his leadership, Telephonics has expanded its business as a trusted supplier in the defense electronics market. Joe has positioned Telephonics to grow its key business areas and competencies in integrated information, communication and sensor systems. We are proud of Telephonics’ success under Joe’s leadership and wish him well in his retirement.”

Effective with Battaglia’s retirement, Kevin McSweeney has been appointed president of Telephonics. McSweeney brings over 30 years of experience in the defense industry. He joined Telephonics in 2004 and has served as executive vice president and chief operating officer (COO) since 2012. As COO, McSweeney has direct oversight of Telephonics’ five business units, as well as functional areas including technology, business development, manufacturing and supply chain. McSweeney has extensive leadership experience in technology development and management, having started his career at Grumman Aerospace as a software engineer and later joining Lockheed Martin as a software program manager. During his Lockheed tenure he was assigned increasing responsibilities, ultimately being named vice president of Lockheed’s Maritime Safety, Security and Surveillance (MS3) line of business.

Kramer commented, “Kevin is an outstanding leader with strong customer, supplier and employee relationships. He has assumed increasing levels of responsibility throughout his Telephonics career and is uniquely positioned to succeed Joe. We have high expectations for the future of Telephonics under Kevin’s leadership.”

Source: Griffon Corporation