Pye-Barker Fire & Safety has named Kelly Rooney president, a newly created role in which she will oversee operations, growth initiatives and company culture.

Rooney will report directly to CEO Bart Proctor and work with him to oversee the company’s operations as Pye-Barker continues to expand its fire protection, life safety and security services business.

Rooney joins Pye-Barker from UniFirst, where she served as chief operating officer. Before joining UniFirst, she spent much of her career in the environmental services industry, holding senior operating and leadership positions that included roles at WM, formerly Waste Management.

Her experience includes leading large-scale field operations across multiple markets and geographic regions. Rooney also previously served as chief human resources officer at WM, where she developed programs focused on recruiting, retaining and developing frontline employees in communities across the United States and Canada.

“Kelly has worked on all sides of the B2B services industry, from the frontline to operations to growth, and we certainly value that expertise,” Proctor said. “But it's her passion for building strong, resilient teams that makes her such a great fit for this role.”

The appointment comes following several years of expansion at Pye-Barker. The company has acquired more than 100 fire protection and security businesses during the past two years. It has also introduced employee and community initiatives including its ALL In (Achieving Lasting Legacy Incentive) Ownership Program and What Matters Community Impact Program.

Pye-Barker is marking its 80th anniversary this year. The company has more than 250 locations and 9,000 employees and provides fire protection and security systems nationwide.

“My career has taken me from leading teams in the field to the leadership suite, and I have never lost sight of where the real work happens,” Rooney said. “I have profound respect for frontline teams and the role they play every day in taking care of customers and building great businesses.”

Rooney holds a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Gonzaga University and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Roanoke College. She also serves on the board of TD Industries.