Stavanger, Norway, 23 April 2025 — Desert Control stands at the threshold of an exciting new chapter. With a solid foundation in place, validated technology, and commercial traction in key markets, the company is now strengthening its leadership to drive the next phase of growth. This leadership transition comes at a time of strength, when Desert Control’s technology, partnerships, and commercial model are proven, and the company is prepared to scale its impact globally.
After six rewarding and intense years leading Desert Control from early innovation to commercial reality, Ole Kristian Sivertsen is passing the baton to James E. Thomas, who steps in as CEO to guide the company through its continued scaling and expansion.
This transition is a natural and strategic evolution, thoughtfully managed in alignment with the Board of Directors and key stakeholders. As Desert Control advances from pioneering technology development into operational delivery and growth, this leadership shift positions the company to realize the full potential of the opportunities ahead.
“Leading Desert Control has been an amazing and deeply meaningful journey,” said Ole Kristian Sivertsen. “Over the past six years, I have lived and breathed this mission, dedicating my energy to turning a breakthrough innovation idea into a real-world solution with global relevance. We’ve laid a strong foundation – validating our technology, making it scalable, forging key partnerships, and delivering tangible impact in the field.
Now, with that platform in place, and as the company moves into a phase focused on scaling and commercial execution, the timing is right for new leadership to take it further. This transition is not about stepping away, but about ensuring Desert Control has the leadership it needs for the road ahead. I remain deeply committed as one of the company’s largest shareholders and will work closely with James, Executive Chairman, Lars Eismark, and the Board over the coming months to ensure a smooth and effective handover. My role may change, but my passion for Desert Control and our mission remains as strong as ever,” Sivertsen added.
James E. Thomas, Desert Control’s largest shareholder and incoming CEO, brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in deep-tech, IP-driven, and growth-stage businesses. Having served on the Board and been actively engaged with the company’s teams, partners, and clients, Thomas is uniquely positioned to lead the company into its next phase.
“I want to thank Ole Kristian for his extraordinary leadership and relentless dedication,” said James Thomas. “Taking a vision and building it into a company with real-world momentum is no small feat, and Ole has done this with conviction and care. I am honored to take on the role of CEO at this pivotal time. Desert Control is ready to scale, and I look forward to working with our exceptional team to build on the foundation laid. Together, we are focused on disciplined delivery, sustainable growth, and long-term value creation for shareholders and stakeholders alike – staying true to our mission while taking the company to the next level.”
“This transition reflects strength and foresight,” commented Executive Chairman Lars R. Eismark. “Ole Kristian has led Desert Control through a remarkable transformation – from early innovation to a company with a real-world footprint, commercial momentum, and a mission that resonates globally. We are grateful for the platform he has built and the dedication he continues to show. As the company enters a new phase of revenue growth in the United States and the Middle East, James brings a unique combination of strategic insight, financial strength, and deep engagement with Desert Control’s mission. His leadership will reinforce our commercial momentum and strengthen the company’s foundation for long-term growth and value creation. The Board fully supports this transition and is confident in the leadership team’s ability to deliver on the company’s goals.”
As the company shifts from visionary building to scaled execution, this transition ensures the right leadership for the next leg of the journey. With Ole Kristian continuing to support the transition and with James stepping in to lead operational scale-up, Desert Control is well-equipped to seize the opportunities ahead.
With validated technology, growing commercial deployments, and a next-generation production system ready for scale, Desert Control is entering a new phase of delivery and growth. Recent achievements include securing the company’s first larger-scale commercial projects in the United States, implementing new business models with recurring revenue streams, initiating impactful initiatives such as with the United Nations World Food Programme, and expanding revenue generation in both the U.S. and the Middle East. The company has achieved these milestones through disciplined execution, while maintaining a debt-free balance sheet. Looking ahead, Desert Control is positioned for significant growth, with a strong commercial pipeline and the operational capacity to scale its impact by more than tenfold this year.
The company’s mission remains clear: to enhance soil health, conserve water, and drive sustainable growth for agriculture and green landscapes worldwide. With a leadership team aligned and focused, Desert Control is poised to deliver lasting impact and long-term value for all stakeholders.