Gary Eiben’s career is a testament to the power of adaptability, perseverance, and vision. With more than 35 years of experience across corporate America, entrepreneurial ventures, and advisory roles, he has consistently demonstrated a rare ability to balance strategic oversight with hands-on operational execution. His journey reflects not only his commitment to business excellence but also his personal philosophy of learning from every challenge, sharing knowledge generously, and building organizations that endure.
Born with an instinct for leadership and problem-solving, Gary’s early professional path led him to ExxonMobil, one of the world’s most recognized corporations. At ExxonMobil, he rose to the role of U.S. Retail Manager, where he was entrusted with developing long-term vision and strategy for the retail consumer package portfolio. In this capacity, Gary led initiatives spanning sales, category management, channel management, supply chain, and customer marketing. His work required both a sharp strategic mind and the ability to manage complex cross-functional teams. Over his nine-year tenure, he gained deep insights into global operations while cultivating the skills that would later shape his entrepreneurial endeavors.
Gary’s transition from corporate executive to entrepreneur showcased his versatility and ambition. In 2014, he acquired Cincinnati Alarm Systems, Inc., a well-established security company that had been serving the Tri-State area for decades. Under his leadership as President, Gary strengthened the company’s reputation for delivering integrated security solutions to both residential and commercial markets. His tenure was marked by growth in customer relationships, innovation in service offerings such as fire systems and video surveillance, and the consistent delivery of reliable solutions. Through his stewardship, the company became a trusted partner to organizations and families seeking safety, efficiency, and peace of mind.
Parallel to his entrepreneurial journey, Gary invested in property management, leading Cassi Properties, a family-held real estate business. His work in this sector deepened his operational knowledge while allowing him to diversify his business portfolio. As he managed the divestment of Casi Properties, Gary skillfully balanced the complexities of real estate transactions with the long-term vision of transitioning into a semi-retired stage of his career. This phase reflected not a slowdown, but a redirection of his energy toward advisory and leadership roles where his knowledge could continue to add significant value.
Beyond his corporate and entrepreneurial achievements, Gary has consistently contributed to advisory boards and business forums. His involvement with the University of Cincinnati’s Business Roundtable illustrates his passion for collaborative problem-solving. In this environment, he engaged with peers and leaders from diverse industries to share insights, dissect challenges, and propose actionable solutions. Colleagues often described him as pragmatic, thoughtful, and collaborative—qualities that made his contributions both impactful and enduring.
What distinguishes Gary is his unique blend of large-scale corporate experience and entrepreneurial grit. Having navigated the structures of ExxonMobil and the grassroots challenges of growing a family business, he understands the complexities of organizations at every stage of development. This dual perspective enables him to advise with authority, empathy, and realism. Whether guiding strategic growth, refining operational processes, or mentoring leaders, Gary approaches challenges with the same consistency: clarity of thought, practicality in execution, and an unwavering focus on results.
Gary’s professional foundation is anchored by strong academic credentials. He earned his MBA in Business from Nova Southeastern University and his BA in Psychology and Sociology from Duquesne University. These studies equipped him with both the analytical skills to manage complex systems and the human understanding necessary to lead diverse teams. His education has always been complemented by his real-world experiences, and together they forged a leader capable of bridging theory and practice.
Equally important are Gary’s values and passions outside the boardroom. He is a devoted family man who finds joy in golfing, collecting cars, and staying connected to his community. His volunteer work, including contributions to Saint Margaret School, reflects his belief in giving back. These personal interests reveal a well-rounded individual who values balance, integrity, and legacy—principles that have consistently guided his professional decisions.
International exposure has also shaped Gary’s worldview. From corporate meetings in Canada to engagements in South America, he has gained a nuanced appreciation for the complexities of global markets. While his work has been primarily U.S.-based, these international experiences broadened his perspective and reinforced his adaptability in diverse business environments. He also served in the Army Reserves as an NCO from 1987-1993.
Today, Gary is embracing the next chapter of his career with enthusiasm. Semi-retirement has afforded him the flexibility to focus on what he values most: sharing his knowledge, mentoring others, and contributing to organizations in meaningful ways. With a deep well of experience in operations, sales, property management, and strategic advisory work, he stands ready to bring seasoned insight to boards and advisory committees. For Gary, this stage is not about slowing down—it is about channeling decades of wisdom into opportunities that are impactful, engaging, and rewarding.
Character:
Gary exemplifies integrity, resilience, and commitment in all aspects of his career. He has faced the challenges of both corporate and entrepreneurial environments with steadfast principles, demonstrating a consistent moral compass. His leadership is defined not only by what he achieves but also by how he achieves it—with fairness, respect, and authenticity.
Knowledge:
With more than three decades of diverse business experience, Gary possesses a wealth of operational, strategic, and financial expertise. His ability to integrate lessons from corporate America, entrepreneurial ventures, and advisory work makes his knowledge both broad and practical. This foundation allows him to provide actionable insights that resonate with leaders across industries.
Strategic:
Gary’s career reflects a strong capacity for long-term vision and disciplined execution. At ExxonMobil, he built strategies for national portfolios, while at Cincinnati Alarm Systems, he guided entrepreneurial growth. His strategic mindset enables him to evaluate challenges holistically and craft solutions that balance immediate needs with sustainable progress.
Communication:
Clear, thoughtful communication has been a hallmark of Gary’s success. Whether leading cross-functional teams, advising peers, or participating in collaborative forums, he communicates with precision and empathy. His ability to listen actively and articulate complex ideas in a practical manner makes him a trusted voice in any room.
