Today Avnet, Inc. (NYSE: AVT) announced the appointment of Kevin Summers as its chief information officer (CIO), with responsibility for Avnet’s global IT strategy and enterprise effectiveness initiative. Reporting to Avnet CEO William (“Bill”) J. Amelio, Summers joins Avnet with more than 25 years of experience leading the technology efforts of some of the world’s most elite brands.

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Kevin Summers named Chief Information Officer for Avnet. (Photo: Business Wire)

Kevin Summers named Chief Information Officer for Avnet. (Photo: Business Wire)

“IT plays a critical role in enabling our business strategy, especially as Avnet transforms its business model with the acquisitions of Premier Farnell and Hackster.io to service customers throughout their lifecycle,” said Amelio. “Kevin has a solid track record of ushering in new and innovative technologies from emerging digital platforms to big data analytics. As our new CIO, he will focus sharply on developing an IT roadmap that further differentiates Avnet as a technology leader.”

“I look forward to working with Avnet’s award-winning IT team as we partner with the business to write the next chapter in Avnet’s rich history. Together, we will put the company at the forefront of digital transformation, enhancing the entire technology supply chain,” said Summers.

Summers has extensive experience in leading large-scale IT organizations, where technology is used to enable growth strategies and create competitive advantages. This includes serving in CIO positions with H&R Block, Lowe’s, Whirlpool and The Coca-Cola Company, as well as senior executive positions at AT&T and GE. Summers possesses a wealth of IT experience in strategy and roadmap development, which is complemented by deep expertise in using innovative technologies such as cloud computing, IoT solutions, and big data analytics platforms to enhance e-commerce, supply chain and retail sales operations.

Summers succeeds Steve Phillips, who has decided to leave Avnet. “Looking ahead, it’s important to also acknowledge our deep heritage in technology leadership. We appreciate Steve’s 11 years of contributions and dedication to Avnet. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors,” said Amelio.

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About Avnet, Inc.

From components to cloud and design to disposal, Avnet, Inc. (NYSE:AVT) accelerates the success of customers who build, sell and use technology globally by providing them with a comprehensive portfolio of innovative products, services and solutions. For more information, visit www.avnet.com.