PAR Systems announced that Karla Leis, president and COO of PAR Systems, has been promoted to president and CEO of PAR Systems. Karla succeeds Tom Pohlad, who will remain on the board and serve as an advisor to Karla and the company.
“Our customers are looking for new and unique ways to improve quality and efficiency with cutting edge automation and critical handling solutions, and I have complete confidence in Karla to continue leading us down that path,” said Tom Pohlad. “She has earned the trust and respect of the company and its customers. As we look to the future, we are positive she is the right person to lead the company and provide the highest level of service and support to our customers.”
“I could not be more grateful to accept the position as President and CEO of this organization. We have an extremely talented team and long history of dedication to bringing our customers’ innovations to life,” said Leis. “I am committed to building on our history of success, while actively listening to feedback from customers and employees about how we can deliver even more value to our customers.”
Karla joined PAR in 2021 bringing more than twenty-five years of leadership experience across a variety of business disciplines including product management, technology innovation, international sales and marketing, and M&A integrations. Prior to joining PAR Systems, she held Vice President roles at global organizations including nVent, Pentair and Tennant Company. Karla has a passion for developing and inspiring teams to work collaboratively to serve customers, improve execution and grow. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Minnesota- Carlson School of Management.
Tom Pohlad has served as CEO of PAR Systems since 2019. Previously, he served as president and COO of Carousel Motor Group (CMG) along with a variety of other roles. Prior to joining CMG in 2010, Tom held roles in Pohlad Companies ranging from Commercial Real Estate to Major League Baseball to Pepsi Bottling. Tom joined the Pohlad family business after graduating from Boston College in 2002. Tom will continue to be active in the PAR Systems business as an advisor to Karla and the company.