Aware appoints former Idemia executive as new CEO and President

Aware has announced the appointment of Robert A. Eckel as chief executive officer and president, effective immediately, with former CEO, President, and General Counsel Kevin T. Russell becoming chief legal and administrative officer.

Russell will continue to serve on the companies Board of Directors, which will also be joined by Eckel.

Eckel previously performed the role of CEO and President of North America for Idemia’s Identity and Security Business and of CEO for MorphoTrust USA. In those roles, he was responsible for leading the integration of numerous acquisitions, while ensuring customer and employee engagement, according to the announcement. He has also worked for Raytheon Company, Hughes Aircraft Company and Digimarc Corporation, and has a portfolio of expertise including biometrics, secure identity, air traffic control and defense systems.

“Over the past several years, the Aware team has done a great job expanding our industry-leading biometric technology and platforms to enable us to grow beyond our traditional government market and penetrate the commercial market with a range of robust, flexible, biometric applications and solutions,” Aware Chairman of the Board Brent Johnstone says. “We’re excited to name Bob Eckel as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Aware team to drive our leading biometric technology into the government and the commercial markets as well as explore strategic partnerships. Bob brings a wealth of direct industry experience as well as a track record of driving commercial success.”

“I’m excited to be joining an Aware team known for its customer relationships, employee dedication and exemplary domain knowledge and passion,” comments Eckel. “Together we’ll continue to expand Aware’s leadership position in the industry and bring effective biometric technology into people’s lives. One of my passions is to build and lead companies that enable individuals to experience the life we deserve through technology. My background in secure identity solutions, biometrics technology, and complex systems will help me drive this mission for Aware.”

The company recently pitched the flexibility of its AwareABIS and BioSP platform to law enforcement at the IAI International Educational Conference.

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