CHICAGO, IL Environmental Systems Design, Inc. (ESD) appoints Zackery House as CEO. He replaces Raj Gupta, who assumes the role of Executive Chairman of the Board.

"Zac is a humble and thoughtful leader with great business insight and a very approachable style," Gupta said. "As CEO, he is responsible for strategic direction, ensuring we meet annual operating goals and delivering the specific measures outlined in our long-range plan, ESD 2021."

House joined ESD in 2013 as Vice President and Group Leader of the firm's Technology Consulting Engineering Group. He was named Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer in 2015 before becoming Chief of Staff the following year. Previously, he worked in various leadership roles for Wal-Mart Stores in the company's Information Systems and Realty Construction Division. During his 10-year career with Wal-Mart, he spearheaded corporate business initiatives that resulted in significant shareholder value and return on investment. 

"I am extremely honored to be taking over the mantle of leadership at ESD," House said. "I am looking to build on a 50-year history of success and innovation that has elevated the firm into the top echelon of consulting engineering organizations in the country."

House is a certified professional project leader, registered information technology project manager, registered telecommunications project manager, BICSI registered communications distribution designer, and outside plant specialist. He also has Information Technology Infrastructure Library certification. He received a Master of Science in operations management from the University of Arkansas' College of Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in business management from Capella University. 

As Executive Chairman of the board, Gupta will focus on long-term initiatives which include building a board of directors, establishing robust career development paths for employees, pursuing the acquisition of small-sized and medium-sized firms, and promoting the ESD brand.