MINNEAPOLIS (July 6, 2017) — Starkey® Hearing Technologies, one of the world’s leading hearing technology companies, today announced the appointment of Brandon Sawalich as president. He will succeed William F. Austin as president. Mr. Austin, the founder of Starkey Hearing Technologies, will remain CEO and continue to function as an active participant in Starkey’s strategic direction and leadership.
Mr. Sawalich joined Starkey Hearing Technologies in 1994. Since then, he has held numerous executive and leadership positions, most recently senior vice president. In addition to his work at Starkey Hearing Technologies, he is chairman of the Hearing Industries Association (HIA) and sits on several boards that benefit the industry, as well as supports other charitable organizations around the country.
“After 23 years with Starkey, Brandon has proven to me that he is a trusted leader who Starkey can be proud of, and who shares my passion and commitment to better hearing, our employees, the industry and the people we serve,” said Mr. Austin. “He has been an instrumental part of the team leading Starkey, with me, these past 22 months. Under tremendous pressures, he guided the company’s technological advancement and commitment to customer service, all while building a talented leadership team with the values and ethics upon which I started this company. I could not have asked for a more dedicated partner.”
“I am humbled by the extraordinary honor to lead this wonderful organization and talented team,” said Mr. Sawalich. “Fifty years ago, Bill Austin started Starkey on the fundamental values of connecting people through better hearing. He is a caring business leader who has dedicated his life to serving those in need. I am eager to continue building on Bill’s successful history and am excited about our direction and unlimited potential.”
About Starkey Hearing Technologies
Starkey Hearing Technologies is a privately held, global hearing technology company headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Founded in 1967, the company is recognized for its innovative design, development and distribution of comprehensive digital hearing systems. The company develops, manufactures and distributes hearing aids via three distinct brands – Audibel, NuEar and its original brand, Starkey. As the only American owned and operated provider of hearing technologies, Starkey Hearing Technologies is proud to support veterans and active military service personnel with the best in American innovation, including a suite of revolutionary hearing technologies and other resources.
Starkey Hearing Technologies currently employs more than 5,000 people, operates 22 facilities and conducts business in more than 100 markets worldwide. For more information, visit www.starkey.com or the Starkey Expo Page on AudiologyOnline.
