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Jon Kirchner
Chief Operating Officer at Data, Industrial Tech, Industrial IoT, Remote Sensing, Satellite, Highly-Engineered Solutions
Professional Background
Jon Kirchner is an accomplished and experienced executive in the fields of aerospace, industrial technology, and the Internet of Things (IoT). With a wealth of expertise spanning decades, he is currently focused on seeking his next opportunity as a Chief Operating Officer (COO), Chief Executive Officer (CEO), General Manager, or Division Business Unit Head within engineering and technology-driven companies. His ideal target companies are mid-market firms with annual revenues ranging from $50 to $500 million, especially those backed by private equity, privately-owned, family-owned, or large corporate business units.
In his current pursuits, Jon is actively advising industrial technology and aerospace companies, as well as private equity firms, on strategic and operational development, innovation, and digital technology enablement. Jon’s expertise allows him to shine light on global growth trends in technology, leveraging insights from a vast network of experts and financial sponsorship organizations. Over the years, he has built a reputation for being an inspirational leader who encounters new technologies and talented professionals, continually impressed by the innovation blossoming within the industry.
Education and Achievements
Jon Kirchner's educational journey laid a solid foundation for his prosperous career. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri, which equipped him with essential business acumen. His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue an MBA at Hult International Business School at Ashridge Management College in Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom. Achieving his MBA with Distinction in 1996 greatly influenced his career trajectory and helped shape his global perspective on business.
Throughout his impressive career, Jon has held significant leadership positions within various organizations, showcasing his effectiveness in driving results and transformation in complex environments. Notably, he served as the Chief Executive Officer at Markel Corporation, where he navigated challenges and harnessed opportunities to guide the company towards success. His strategic leadership continued as he took on the role of President at Perfero Advisory and Senior Vice President of Corporate Strategy & Product Management at Globecomm Systems Inc. Jon’s extensive experience also includes serving as President & Chief Operating Officer at GeoOptics Inc., General Manager & Executive Vice President at Arqiva, and Vice President of Global Marketing & Business Development at Loral Skynet.
His early career shaped his understanding of the industry as he held roles that spanned various functional areas, including marketing, client services, and operations. His portfolio encompasses both large public corporations and mid-market private equity firms, as well as early-stage and pre-revenue startups, showcasing his adaptability and breadth of knowledge in the ever-evolving technological landscape.
Personal Fabric
A native of Wisconsin, Jon's personal experiences and cultural background play a vital role in shaping his worldview and professional demeanor. Residing in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, he enjoys a fulfilling life with his wife, a nine-year-old daughter, and three college-age stepchildren. Jon balances his professional commitments with a variety of hobbies and interests, including a passion for golf, American football, snow skiing, squash, culinary arts, and oenology.
His love for music and theatre not only gives him a creative outlet but also enriches his leadership approach, fostering an environment of collaboration and inspiration in the workplace. Jon’s multifaceted interests allow him to connect with colleagues, inspire innovative thinking, and drive a culture of excellence in his professional engagements.
