Charleston Software Firm Blackbaud Hires New CEO

One of the Lowcountry's biggest technology employers has hired a new full-time CEO.

Blackbaud Inc. announced that Michael P. Gianoni will become its president and chief executive officer Jan. 13. He also will join the board of the Charleston company, which develops software and services for nonprofit organizations and has operations around the world.

The Daniel Island-based tech firm said the 52-year-old Gianoni "brings extensive experience critical to Blackbaud's growth, operational excellence and market leadership goals."

"It is a privilege to join the Blackbaud team at such an exciting time in the company's growth," Gianoni said in a statement. "Blackbaud has a rich history of supporting the missions of nonprofit organizations, and I look forward to further extending the company's contributions to this vital sector and building on its track record of success."

Most recently, he was executive vice president and a group president at Fiserv Inc., which develops technology products for the financial services industry. Previously, he was president of the company's investment services division, where he oversaw sales, finance, operations and strategy.

Andrew Leitch, Blackbaud's chairman, said the board conducted "a thorough search" before offfering Gianoni the top job.

"His significant experience and expertise in software solutions and product development make him the ideal candidate to lead Blackbaud during its next phase of growth," Leitch said in a statement. "In addition to his extensive industry background, he has a proven track record of delivering operational excellence and scaling a technology business."

Gianoni has an associate's degree in electrical engineering from Waterbury State Technical College, a bachelor's degree from Charter Oak State College and a master's degree in business administration degree from the University of New Haven.

Interim CEO Tony Boor will return full-time to his job as chief financial officer after Jan. 13. Boor took over for former chief executive Marc Chardon in August on a temporary basis.