Kohrs Lonnemann Heil Engineers, Inc. (KLH Engineers), a national mechanical, electrical, plumbing and technology engineering firm, has appointed Jim Tavernelli, PE, MBA, as president and CEO. Previously serving as the firm’s president and chief operating officer, he succeeds Bob Heil, PE, who served as CEO since 2015.
Heil will transition to the role of executive director of strategic relationships and community engagement. He joined KLH in 1987 as a project engineer and embarked on a career that would see him ascend to the roles of CEO and chair of the board. His strategic vision and genuine care for employee well-being cemented KLH’s place as a leader in engineering excellence and community engagement. Heil is a founding member of the OneNKY Alliance and serves as the board chair. In addition, he serves on the BE NKY Growth Partnership board of directors, the Duke Energy Ohio Kentucky Advisory Council, the Board of NKY Chamber of Commerce political action committee, the Northern Kentucky University Haile College of Business Dean’s Advisory Board, and the Campbell Leadership Action Group.
“This transition is part of a long-term succession plan,” said Heil. “Jim has been an invaluable member of our leadership team, placing KLH at the forefront of innovation in the construction industry.”
Tavernelli has a notable track record of driving the firm’s growth and transformation during his 23-year tenure. He has led the firm’s reinvention into an innovation-centric practice, which has unlocked new value for KLH Engineers and its clients. His leadership provides opportunities for every employee to be visionaries, advance ideas, and develop new technologies and processes. This approach led to the creation of the firm’s in-house software department, transforming KLH’s culture while building an extensive set of software applications, new ventures and strategic partnerships to improve the architecture, engineering and construction value stream. Tavernelli has a personal passion for transparency as evidenced through his establishment of the firm’s open-book management practice.
“We have three iconic figures in Joe Kohrs, Robert Lonnemann, and Bob Heil who have led KLH for nearly three decades,” said Tavernelli. “They have paved the way for my generation to lead the company. As president and CEO, I have the privilege of carrying their legacies forward and I will do so with energy and enthusiasm. I would like to thank Bob for his trust and mentorship, and I am excited to continue building upon our strong position and reputation in the market.”
