Southland Industries Announces Retirement of CEO Andy Fimiano

Irvine, CA (October 11, 2011) – Southland Industries announced that Andy Fimiano, its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) since 2002, is retiring from the company. Fimiano announced his succession plan in October of last year and has spent the year transitioning his role and responsibilities to Southland President Ted Lynch.

According to Fimiano, "the leadership succession plan has proven to be a seamless transition that has had no impact to Southland's operations. These past few years have been some of Southland's best in the 62 year history of the company, and I am confident that it will continue to flourish under Ted's guidance."

Fimiano was instrumental in ensuring that a carefully planned succession left Southland well positioned for future success. "I wanted it to be clear that there would be no disruptions to our Board of Directors, our employees and our clients. Equally important, I wanted my successor to continue to embrace the guiding principles that have served as the foundation for Southland's success," said Fimiano.

"I am extremely proud of what we have accomplished during my 30 years at Southland. With the help of my leadership staff, we have capitalized on many opportunities that bolstered Southland's growth into one of the largest mechanical Design-Build contractors in the nation," said Fimiano.

During his retirement, Fimiano expects to join Southland's Board of Advisors. "As I move into retirement, I look forward to offering my guidance as a member of the Board of Advisors and as an ambassador for Southland," said Fimiano. He will also assist the company with any special projects it may encounter.

Ted Lynch, an 18-year veteran of the firm and current President, is Fimiano's designated successor. "I am grateful for Andy's guidance and shared wisdom over years. It is an exciting time to work at Southland, and we are well positioned to take on new opportunities and challenges in the years to come. I welcome the chance to lead this great company and am eager to accept this new role," Lynch said.

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About Southland

Southland Industries was founded in 1949 as a Long Beach-based supplier of residential heating solutions to the Southern California market. Southland has expanded its services exponentially through the years. Today, Southland is one of the nation's largest mechanical contractors providing full design, construction, fabrication, service and maintenance for HVAC, process piping, plumbing, fire protection, controls and automation. For more information: www.southlandind.com