ServiceMaster Announces Leadership, Operational Changes

DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. – The ServiceMaster Company has announced plans to integrate several functions designed to simplify strategic and operational changes of the business under current Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Steve Preston.

Preston will lead the company's strategy, mergers and acquisitions, technology, Six Sigma and strategic sourcing operation. The search for a new chief financial officer – to replace Preston – is underway.

"ServiceMaster is on a path to transform the customer service experience while achieving improved levels of revenue growth and operational efficiency. This requires a deeper integration of strategy, processes and technology," said Jonathan Ward, chairman and CEO. "Steve is a proven leader with a strong vision and financial skills. Pulling together these disciplines together under Steve and having him partner with Ernie Mrozek, our president and chief operating officer, confirms our commitment to this vital work."

Preston, 43, has served as chief financial officer for ServiceMaster since April 1997. Previously, he was senior vice president and corporate treasurer for First Data Corporation, Atlanta, Ga., and prior to that role he was an investment banker at Lehman Brothers.

Service Master provides outsourcing services for more than 10.5 million residential and commercial customers. Among other offerings, the company provides lawn care, landscape maintenance and termite and pest control.