Veoci, a New Haven-based software and technology company, has picked Christopher Ford as its new vice president of sales and partnerships.
Ford brings years of experience in sales and computer technology to this new role, including at companies such as IBM, Mersive Technologies, Microsoft, Polycom and Pexip.
Veoci is a cloud-based platform for emergency management, business continuity, team collaboration, and daily operations. The company has customers in private enterprise, state and local government, education, healthcare, aviation and utilities.
As a sales leader, Ford will play a critical role in accelerating the company’s growth and alliances.
Sukh Grewal, CEO of Veoci, said Ford’s arrival is an “important milestone” for the company.
“He joins us at a time of market acceptance of our vision and product,” Grewal said. “His leadership will be a critical component in continuing that growth.”
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New Haven picks new director of disability services
Gretchen Knauff is the city of New Haven’s new acting director of disability services, filling the role vacated by Michelle Duprey, who took a position in the Office of Corporation Counsel as deputy corporation counsel.
Mayor Justin Elicker said he is excited to welcome Knauff to the City Hall team.
“Gretchen has a strong history in the field of disability rights and advocacy – leading by example, fostering open communication and understanding the legal and ethical obligations of all to ensure equal treatment of every member of our community,” Elicker said.
Knauff is a graduate of the University of Connecticut School of Law. She had spent much of her career working to protect the rights of people with disabilities. Knauff worked for the state of Connecticut in the Office of Protection and Advocacy for Persons with Disabilities in several roles for two decades, including as assistant director. Knauff’s most recent position was at Disability Rights Connecticut, where she served as the executive director until 2020.
“I look forward to continuing New Haven’s legacy of being welcoming to its residents, employees and visitors with disabilities,” Knauff said.
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Coldwell Banker Realty names top agent for 2020
Lauren Freedman
Coldwell Banker Realty in Connecticut and Westchester County, New York announced that Lauren Freedman, a real estate agent in its Branford office, was its No. 1 agent for 2020, based on gross commission income and total units sold.
Freedman has been recognized with the Coldwell Banker Realty International Society of Excellence award based on her 2020 sales achievements. This award, the highest honor in the company, is presented to less than half of the top 1% of approximately 96,000 Coldwell Banker Realty agents internationally.
Joe Valvano, president of Coldwell Banker Realty in Connecticut and Westchester County, New York, said, “Lauren’s expertise, energy and passion ensure she and her clients succeed in any market.”
Freedman started her career at age 20, and has been in the real estate business for 11 years, serving home buyers and sellers in the New Haven shoreline area.
