BRISBANE, AUS, May 28, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via PRWEB - With more than 30 years' international experience in professional engineering services, Mr. Wankmuller joins Cardno following an extensive candidate search by the Cardno Board.
He was most recently a Director of GHD Group Pty Limited and President of GHD Americas which has expanded from 350 employees in 2011 to approximately 4000 today. Mr. Wankmuller has held senior positions in the GHD business and was a member of GHD's Executive management team, which has provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the Australian operating environment. Prior to joining GHD, Mr. Wankmuller was a member of Parsons Corporation's global Executive Management Team and Group President of its Water and Infrastructure Group. He was also a director of MWH Global where he fulfilled senior executive roles in the USA, Europe and Australia.
Mr. Wankmuller holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree from the University of Delaware, a Masters in Civil Engineering from Oregon State University, and has completed the Harvard University Advanced Management Program.
Cardno Limited Chairman Mr. John Marlay said the Board was impressed by Mr. Wankmuller's significant expertise, success in growing professional services businesses, international business experience, and his leadership style and capabilities.
"We believe he will be a strong contributor and business leader for Cardno," Mr. Marlay said. "Richard is a disciplined leader, focusses on priorities and performance within the business, and demonstrates a deep understanding of client service delivery."
Mr. Wankmuller was instrumental in the 2014 merger of GHD Group and Conestoga-Rovers & Associates (CRA) to create an 8500-employee environmental, engineering and construction services consulting group. He helped guide the development of the opportunities, the negotiation and the integration of these businesses to deliver a successful merger and associated financial outcomes.
"I am delighted to be appointed as Cardno's CEO," Mr. Wankmuller said. "Cardno has a strong market position in its chosen sectors of environment and infrastructure. I have been impressed with the leadership team, the capabilities within the business and the opportunities already being pursued to drive enhanced profitability. I am confident of our ability to work our way through the current challenges and realise the potential of Cardno."
Mr. Marlay praised the significant contribution of Mr. Graham Yerbury, Acting CEO and Chief Financial Officer, since January 2015. "We extend our thanks to Graham Yerbury for the strong leadership and tireless endeavour that he has demonstrated since taking over as Acting CEO in January. The team has achieved much in difficult circumstances under his guidance and we are confident they will provide a strong support to Richard as he joins Cardno," he said.
About Cardno: Cardno is an ASX200 professional infrastructure and environmental services company, with specialist expertise in the development and improvement of physical and social infrastructure for communities around the world. Cardno's team includes leading professionals who plan, design, manage and deliver sustainable projects and community programs. Cardno is an international company, listed on the Australian Securities Exchange [ASX: CDD]. http://www.cardno.com.
This article was originally distributed on PRWeb. For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.prweb.com/releases/2015/05/prweb12753610.htm