Business
VirTra Announces New Leadership Structure; Appoints Bob Ferris as Executive Chairman and John Givens as Sole Chief Executive Officer
Ferris and Givens to Continue Guiding VirTra Following Successful Track Record as Co-CEOs CHANDLER, Ariz., Aug. 15, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- VirTra, Inc.
About this update from Virtra, Inc.
[{"type":"text","content":"Ferris and Givens to Continue Guiding VirTra Following Successful Track Record as Co-CEOs\nCHANDLER, Ariz., Aug. 15, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- VirTra, Inc. (NASDAQ: VTSI) (“VirTra”), a global provider of judgmental use of force training simulators, firearms training simulators for the law enforcement and military markets, announced that John Givens will assume the role of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Bob Ferris, the Company’s founder and current chairman and co-CEO will transition to the position of Executive Chairman of the Board effective today. Since joining the Company’s board of directors in 2020 and subsequently being named co-CEO in 2022, Givens has played a pivotal role in driving VirTra’s rapid progress. His leadership has led to vast operational improvements and the implementation of key customer expansion initiatives that have resulted in record revenue and profitability in the first half of 2023. Givens’ extensive knowledge and established reputation in the simulation and military markets are invaluable assets to VirTra. His previous successes of quickly growing a company in this industry indicate strong promise for VirTra's future endeavors as he assumes the role of sole CEO. John Givens brings a wealth of unique industry experience from his time as the founder of Bohemia Interactive Simulations Inc. (BISim). Since its inception in 2010 under Givens' leadership, BISim rapidly evolved to become one of the most widely utilized simulation products across all branches of the U.S. and allied military forces. This success was underscored by BAE Systems plc's acquisition of BISim in 2022 for a noteworthy $200 million. Givens has been honored with several prestigious awards, notably the simulation industry's first ever 'Pioneer Award.' This accolade was awarded by the trainees and industry peers and underscores his extraordinary contributions that have enhanced the training and effectiveness of U.S. and overseas military personnel. \"I am honored and humbled to carry forward the innovative legacy that Bob has established at VirTra,” said CEO John Givens. “Our collaboration has already led to significant advancements, a testament to what we can accomplish together. As I assume the role of CEO, I am mindful of the solid foundation laid by Bob’s thirty years of dedication and visionary leadership. As we look for...