EiKO Global’s Rick Laird Takes Over from Gary Withers

EiKO Global’s Rick Laird Takes Over from Gary Withers

January 19, 2017

Rick Laird, formerly President of EiKO Global, has assumed the role of President and CEO. Outgoing CEO Gary Withers retired on December 31. 

Under Withers’ 33 years of leadership, EiKO grew from a small family business to a global lighting manufacturer with offices on three continents. “This journey would not be possible without the help and commitment of all those who are working or have worked for EiKO in these almost 40 years, as well as the thousands of customers, reps and vendors throughout the world,” he said.

Withers will continue to serve in a consulting role and board member of EiKO Global. 

Laird began his career in the lighting business at Philips Lighting in 1990, moved to Osram Sylvania in 1995, and joined EiKO in 2007. During his career, he has spent time in several different roles in product development, sales/marketing, and business unit management. Laird became EiKO President in 2012.

“We are truly grateful for Gary’s leadership to make EiKO into what it is today,” Laird said. “I look forward to building on his legacy and continuing EiKO’s tradition of providing the widest selection of high-quality products in the industry.”

Related Articles


Changing Scene

  • March 18, 2026 - Liteline Presents ATTRACKT - New Product Webinar - March 31, 2026

    Liteline Presents: ATTRACKT – New Product Webinar – March 31, 2026

    Join Liteline for the launch of ATTRAKT, a low-voltage magnetic lighting system designed for modern spaces. ATTRACKT’s compact, refined form factor delivers exceptional flexibility, with fixtures that can be easily positioned and reconfigured to suit evolving lighting needs. With versatile modules and connectors to create customized layouts, ATTRACKT provides a clean, modular solution that elevates… Read More…

  • March 3, 2026 - Leviton - Certolux Visioneering (Viscor) Announces Walter Lai as New Purchasing Manager

    Leviton – Certolux Visioneering (Viscor) Announces Walter Lai as New Purchasing Manager

    Leviton – Certolux Visioneering (Viscor) is excited to welcome Walter Lai CSCMP to the team as Purchasing Manager! Walter brings over 20 years of expertise in purchasing, inventory management, and supply chain operations. His strong background in supplier management, cost optimization, and leading cross-functional teams will be a tremendous asset as they continue to strengthen… Read More…


Design

  • CSC LED: Why Blue Light at Night Is a Problem & How Amber Optics Solve It

    CSC LED: Why Blue Light at Night Is a Problem & How Amber Optics Solve It

    Outdoor lighting plays a critical role in safety, visibility, and security—but not all light is created equal. In recent years, increased awareness around blue-rich white light has raised important questions about its impact on human health, wildlife, and the night sky. As municipalities, designers, and property owners look for better solutions, Amber Optics are becoming… Read More…

  • RENO Lighting Highlights Rittal Canada Lighting Project

    RENO Lighting Highlights Rittal Canada Lighting Project

    It’s great to see projects grow from one phase to the next! RENO Lighting has partnered with Rittal Canada to supply lighting for their new office and warehouse. As the renovation continues, they are proud to showcase the next step in their transformation. From industrial environments to modern workplaces, each phase requires thoughtful lighting design… Read More…


New Products

  • NEXLEDS: 3CCT Post Top Light – NX-3PT-150W-X-DV-A-Y

    NEXLEDS: 3CCT Post Top Light – NX-3PT-150W-X-DV-A-Y

    NEXLEDS provides an efficient and adaptable lighting solution with the 3CCT Post Top Light. This fixture offers high luminous efficacy, IP65, as well as power tunable and CCT switchable options, granting enhanced visibility, security and safety in exterior spaces. The 3CCT Post Top luminaire is ideal for applications such as parking lots, walkways, campuses, and… Read More…

  • Dals: Boulevard Architectural Linear Collection

    Dals: Boulevard Architectural Linear Collection

    Dals Boulevard is more than a fixture, it’s a complete architectural system. A single, disciplined line of light moves effortlessly from ceiling to wall, from interior to exterior, creating continuity across every space it touches. One system, expressed four ways, unified by proportion, performance, and purpose. Available in standard 120V or multi-voltage configurations (120, 277,… Read More…