Clyde Kofman, COO and senior vice-president of UL. [Photo/ ul.com]

Clyde Kofman is the chief operating officer of Underwriters Laboratories, an independent standards development organization, testing lab and certification body with a mission to enhance safety and facilitate global commerce.

Founded in 1893, UL is a Chicago-based company with worldwide operations in the areas of product safety, life and health products, environmental safety, verification services and education.

Kofman joined UL in 2009, taking over the position of chief commercial officer (CCO). He then expanded the business scope of the company, becoming president of UL enterprise services. Before joining UL, Kofman worked for 18 years at Andersen Law Firm, a global professional services provider.

Before working for Andersen, Kofman served in an important leadership role for global telecoms equipment maker Motorola.

Clyde holds a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from the University of Illinois and a Master of Business Administration from Northwestern University. He also holds a CPA.