CEDIA announced that Global President and CEO Daryl Friedman plans to retire in 2027 following six years leading the association for smart home professionals.

Friedman joined CEDIA in 2021 and oversaw several initiatives aimed at workforce development, advocacy and industry growth. Under his leadership, the association launched CEDIA NextGen and the CEDIA Foundation to support talent development and established a dedicated research department focused on industry market data. CEDIA also expanded its outreach efforts to the broader design-build community through the creation of a specialized engagement department.

The organization said Friedman also reshaped its public policy efforts by building a stronger presence in Washington, D.C., and launching CEDIA’s first Capitol Hill Day. Additional initiatives during his tenure included expanding Smart Home Day to a global audience, introducing a new membership tier focused on education and stabilizing the association’s finances.

“Daryl’s impact on CEDIA has been transformative,” said Amanda Wildman, chairperson of the CEDIA Board. “He stepped into this role at an important time for our association and immediately embraced both the industry and the people in it. Daryl leads with energy, curiosity, and a genuine passion for serving our members, and that has helped shape a stronger, more connected CEDIA.”

Wildman also thanked Friedman for his leadership and contributions to the organization. “On a personal level, I’m incredibly grateful for his friendship. He will always be part of the CEDIA family,” she said.

Friedman said his focus over the next year will be ensuring a smooth transition for his successor.

“It has been the honor of my professional life to lead this association through a period of significant transformation,” Friedman said. “With a strong Board led by integrator Amanda Wildman and team of committed professionals that has earned the Great Place to Work certification for the past two years, I can pass the baton with confidence. My focus into next year will be to ensure a smooth hand-off and set up the next CEO for success.”

The CEDIA Board of Directors is expected to discuss a transition plan during its regularly scheduled June board meeting. Friedman will remain with the organization through the onboarding of his successor to support continuity across existing programs and services.

Founded in 1989, CEDIA serves a global membership of more than 30,000 smart home professionals across more than 80 countries. The organization focuses on advocacy, education and industry standards for technology integrators and co-owns Integrated Systems Europe and founded CEDIA Expo.