ISA announces Mary Ramsey as new executive director

August 29, 2018 – Mary Ramsey has been appointed the executive director of the International Society of Automation (ISA), the nonprofit professional association that sets the standard for those who apply engineering and technology to improve the management, safety, and cybersecurity of modern automation and control systems used across industry and critical infrastructure.

Ramsey has been the interim executive director since January 2018 and has more than 25 years of industrial automation experience. She specializes in leadership, change management and strategy development/execution. Prior to her role at the ISA, she was the senior vice-president of process automation for the Americas at Schneider Electric, where she was responsible for a $550-million profit/loss statement and 1,200 employees. She has also served within Schneider Electric as senior vice-president of US and European industry business. Prior to joining Schneider, Ramsey held several business development roles within Matrikon International, Instrinsyc, Intellution, Inc. and GE Fanuc, among others.

“Mary is a dynamic, experienced leader with a deep understanding of automation and the industries we represent,” said 2018 ISA president Brian Curtis. “She has proven her ability to think strategically and help the organization align its priorities during her tenure as interim executive director, and we are thrilled to welcome her on board permanently.”

A search committee comprised of nine ISA members and leaders from around the world worked to review dozens of resumes and conduct a series of interviews over the last several months. The committee’s work resulted in a recommendation to appoint Ramsey.

“The search committee has dedicated significant time and effort to make this decision. We are confident that Mary’s leadership and extensive experience will serve the organization, its members and the automation community well for years to come,” said Steve Pflantz, executive search committee chair.

Ramsey holds a bachelor of science in electrical engineering (BSEE) degree from the University of Kentucky and a master of business administration (MBA) degree with a specialty in finance and strategy from Loyola University.

“It’s an honor to serve as ISA’s executive director,” said Ramsey. “I’m excited to work with staff, members and leaders to bring a fresh perspective to this important organization. ISA is truly unique in its ability to bring the automation community together to solve difficult technical problems and provide leadership on critical issues facing our industries. We have a lot of work to do, and with the help and support of individuals and companies around the world, we will advance ISA’s mission and create a successful future.”