March 8, 2011 — Universal Technical Institute (UTI) announced Monday that Eugene Putnam Jr. was promoted to president.
Putnam, who previously served as executive vice president and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), will maintain the latter role in addition to his new duties. He will be responsible for operations, human resources, information technology, government relations, regulatory compliance and legal affairs.
“Eugene's promotion formalizes the partnership we have had in managing the business over the past few years and recognizes the key role he has played in driving improved efficiencies and recent record-breaking results,” said Kimberly McWaters, UTI’s CEO. “Expanding Eugene's role will also enable me to focus on more traditional CEO responsibilities, like company strategy, with an emphasis on our marketing and admissions activities. I am truly excited about our continued collaboration as we move the business forward.”
Putnam has previously served as executive vice president and CEO at Aegis Mortgage Corp. and Sterling Bancshares. He was also president of Coastal Securities L.P. and spent 14 years as director of investor relations and other roles at SunTrust Banks.
UTI provides post-secondary education for students seeking careers in automotive, diesel, collision repair, motorcycle and marine technicians.