Menlo Microsystems, a semiconductor technology company developing high-performance switching solutions, has appointed John B. Kennedy as Chief Financial Officer, effective immediately.
Kennedy joins Menlo Micro as the company advances commercialization of its Ideal Switch technology across artificial intelligence infrastructure, data centers, semiconductor testing, and other growth markets.
He succeeds Mark Czepiel, who served as CFO for approximately a decade and helped guide the company’s development from early-stage technology innovation toward commercial adoption.
Kennedy brings more than 30 years of financial and business experience, including 25 years in senior financial leadership positions at venture-backed semiconductor and technology companies.
His previous experience includes positions with Inspire Semiconductor, SolarBridge Technologies, and TriLumina.
SolarBridge was acquired by SunPower, while TriLumina’s vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser technology was acquired by Lumentum.
Throughout his career, Kennedy has helped technology businesses raise venture capital, secure strategic and debt financing, execute mergers and acquisitions, and prepare for public-market transactions.
At Menlo Micro, he will oversee the company’s financial strategy and operations as it expands commercial adoption of its switching technology.
Menlo Micro’s Ideal Switch platform is designed to combine certain advantages of traditional electromechanical relays and semiconductor switches.
The technology offers features including low electrical loss, high linearity, fast switching speeds, and compact physical designs.
Potential applications span semiconductor testing, AI infrastructure, aerospace and defense, radio-frequency systems, and industrial switching.
The company believes its technology can help customers develop smaller, lighter, and more efficient electronic systems.
Kennedy’s appointment follows the selection of Rich Simoncic as CEO in August 2026, strengthening Menlo Micro’s executive team as it enters its next commercialization phase.
KEY QUOTES:
“John brings deep semiconductor industry expertise and a proven track record of financial leadership, guiding innovative technology companies through critical stages of growth. We are confident his experience will be instrumental in supporting our expansion across AI infrastructure, data centers and RF switching markets. As we accelerate commercial adoption, his experience in building scalable financial operations, strengthen strategic partnerships and drive disciplined execution will be invaluable.”
Rich Simoncic, CEO Of Menlo Micro
“Menlo Micro has reached an inflection point as its Ideal Switch moves into new markets and applications. The opportunity ahead is to translate that momentum into a scalable business, with the financial infrastructure, strategic partnerships and capital strategy to support sustained growth. Having helped semiconductor companies navigate similar transitions, I’m excited to bring that experience to Menlo Micro as we build for the next stage.”
John B. Kennedy, Chief Financial Officer Of Menlo Micro
