Analysis
Synaptics Appoints Long-Time Executive, Russell J. Knittel, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer; Thomas J. Tiernan Steps Down
Synaptics announced the appointment of Russell J. Knittel as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer following the resignation for personal reasons of Thomas J. Tiernan as President, Chief Executive Officer, and a director. Mr. Knittel will also be joining the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors is instituting an immediate search for a successor President and Chief Executive Officer.
Mr. Francis Lee, Chairman of the Board, stated, “We thank Tom for his efforts on behalf of our company and wish him well in his future endeavors.” Mr. Lee added, “Russ has played a key role in the success of our company and is familiar with all aspects of our business. We are fortunate to have a long-time, highly capable executive to assume the leadership role while we search for a successor to lead the company forward. Russ has informed us that he wishes to continue with his previously announced plan to retire from active management, which will take place following the selection of a successor, a process in which he will be actively involved. The board is appreciative of Russ’s agreement to assume the role on an interim basis and to join our Board of Directors.”
Mr. Knittel commented, “My involvement with Synaptics for more than 10 years has given me a deep appreciation of its many strengths, including innovation, product offerings, customer service, and employee talent and creativity. During this important transition period, the Board of Directors and I are committed to working with our employees to continue to enhance our business and take advantage of the expanding market opportunities.”
Mr. Tiernan commented, I have enjoyed helping lead this dynamic company over the past four years of record growth and expansion. It has been a great pleasure to have worked with its outstanding employees, management team, and Board of Directors. Synaptics is a wonderful company and is well positioned to capitalize on the many opportunities ahead of it.
Preliminary First Fiscal Quarter 2011 Financial Results and Business Outlook
Synaptics is announcing preliminary financial results for the first fiscal quarter of 2011. The company expects to report record revenue of approximately $153 million, representing 28% growth over the prior year, and 5% growth over the preceding quarter. GAAP net income is expected to increase over 80% from the prior year to approximately $18 to $19 million, or $0.50 to $0.52 per diluted share. Synaptics achieved record revenue from mobile applications during the quarter and shipped the largest number of mobile phone designs in its history to leading handset OEMs globally. In its notebook business, the company continues to provide innovative products to its customers and has maintained its industry-leading market share during the first fiscal quarter.