CEDIA has announced that its global president and CEO, Daryl Friedman, will be retiring in 2027.
Confirming his departure, the association says Friedman intends to support his successor’s onboarding to avoid disruption.
CEDIA Board chairperson Amanda Wildman said: “Daryl’s impact has been transformative.
“He stepped into this role at an important time for our association and immediately embraced both the industry and the people in it.
“Daryl leads with energy, curiosity, and a genuine passion for serving our members, and that has helped shape a stronger, more connected CEDIA.”
Following what the association calls “a period of strategic expansion,” Friedman has overseen programmes and services that have empowered smart home professionals across the globe.
Since stepping into the leadership role in 2021, his achievements include: the introduction of CEDIA NextGen and the CEDIA Foundation to address the talent pipeline; a dedicated research department to provide the industry with critical market data; and an elevated presence in Washington DC, which saw CEDIA launch Capitol Hill Day.
During this time, he also stabilised the organisation’s finances and introduced a new membership tier for added value.
Friedman added: “It has been the honour of my professional life to lead this association.
“With a strong Board led by integrator Amanda Wildman and team of committed professionals that has earned the Great Place to Work certification for the past two years, I can pass the baton with confidence.
“My focus into next year will be to ensure a smooth hand-off and set up the next CEO for success.”
The CEDIA Board of Directors will hold a regularly scheduled Board meeting in June, at which time they will develop a transition plan.