Eaton Corp. has named Yannis P. Tsavalas president for its Europe, Middle East and Africa region effective July 1. He succeeds Jean-Pierre Lacombe, who is retiring. Tsavalas will report to Thomas S. Gross, vice chairman and chief operating officer for Eaton’s electrical sector.
Tsavalas, who will be located in Morges, Switzerland, joined Eaton in 2005 from General Electric, where he was chief technology officer for GE Lighting and general manager of global lighting technology. Most recently, he served Eaton as senior vice president and chief technology officer. He will continue to serve in this position until a replacement is named.
“Yannis will work with the region’s business leaders to develop opportunities to expand Eaton’s presence in our markets,” Gross says. “Since joining Eaton, Yannis has led delivery of global engineering solutions that differentiate Eaton’s capabilities with our customers. His regional knowledge, energy and drive for success will be great additions to our operating plans for this important region.”
Lacombe was named president for Europe, Middle East and Africa in April 2008. He had served as vice president for Europe since 2000. “As our regional leader for Europe, JP has overseen significant growth in Eaton’s European operations, as well as in our regional headquarters,” Gross says. “His leadership has been important in furthering Eaton’s presence and reputation, both in acquired businesses and across the EMEA markets. We have benefitted from his knowledge and experience and wish him well in his retirement.”
