Lal Karsanbhai to succeed David Farr as Emerson’s new CEO

Emerson has announced that Lal Karsanbhai, who has served as Executive President of the company’s Automation Solutions business since 2018, will step in as the company’s new Chief Executive Officer as David N Farr retired on February 5, 2021. Karsanbhai, who has led the Automation Solutions to strong performance, elevating Emerson’s software profile and digital transformation business will also join the board of directors.

Karsanbhai began his career at Emerson in 1995 as an international planner. He was appointed director of corporate planning in 1999, served as Vice President of regulator technologies from 2002 to 2005, when he became Vice President and General Manager of natural gas for Emerson in France.

During his tenure at Emerson, Karsanbhai has worked in Europe, Africa and North America. He is currently a member of Emerson’s Office of the Chief Executive, leads a business with $11.2 billion in global sales in 2020. The Automation Solutions business offers advanced technologies, software and services to process, discrete and hybrid businesses in industries that include life sciences, power, energy, food and beverage, and water and wastewater.

“I have had the opportunity to work alongside Lal during his 25-year career at Emerson and have observed his strengths and proven skill as a seasoned leader with a deep understanding of both business operations and the markets we serve,” Farr said. “The board of directors has been actively engaged throughout our five-year succession process, and we are confident Lal is well-positioned to continue building on Emerson’s legacy of success.”

“I am humbled by the Emerson board and David’s confidence in me,” Karsanbhai said. “This is an exciting time for the organisation as we continue growing Emerson’s global software footprint and expanding the company’s support of essential industries. I am honoured to carry the legacy of Emerson’s leadership into the future and look forward to working with the Office of the Chief Executive to drive these vital goals.”