Shade manufacturer announces new COO amid growth strategy

Ernesto De Oliveira will lead the company's expansion in the shade and electric vehicle charging station industries.


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  • | 5:23 p.m. September 9, 2021
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File. Pictured is Kevin Connelly, president of Apollo Sunguard. The company recently announced Ernesto De Oliveira as the new COO and VP of engineering.
File. Pictured is Kevin Connelly, president of Apollo Sunguard. The company recently announced Ernesto De Oliveira as the new COO and VP of engineering.
  • Manatee-Sarasota
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Sarasota-based shade structure manufacturer Apollo Sunguard announced that Ernesto De Oliveira will assume the position of COO and VP of engineering.

The press release says the appointment is part of the company’s succession planning and growth strategy for expanding its market share in the shade and electric vehicle (EV) charging station industries.

De Oliveira first joined Apollo Sunguard in 2000. He was previously the director of engineering and product design. He is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, Fabric Structure Association and Professional Awning Manufacturers Association.

“Ernesto has more than 25 years of specialized experience in the field of permanent shade and tensile membrane structure and a thorough understanding of our customers’ needs for shade solutions in response to global warming and urban heat islands," says Kevin Connelly, president of Apollo Sunguard, in the release. "He is uniquely positioned to serve as COO of Apollo Sunguard and run the company’s operations.”

Connelly, who founded the company, will continue in his role as CEO, focused on strategic growth of markets and opportunities for the business.

Danielle Cibello, who was serving as interim COO, will be able to refocus on marketing and sales efforts for the company as VP of sales. She has been with Apollo Sunguard since 2006. 

“Apollo’s excellent reputation is a direct result of Danielle’s professionalism and dynamic attention to sales and customer service,” says Connelly. “The change in roles allows both Danielle and Ernesto to play to their strengths while positioning the company for growth.”

Apollo Sunguard was selected last year by the city of Sarasota's Parks and Recreation department to install new shade sails at the Lido Beach concession area. Other projects completed by Apollo Sunguard in the Sarasota area include shade installations at Nathan Benderson Park, Ed Smith Stadium, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and Centennial Park in downtown Venice.

 

 

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