Central Research Inc. in Lowell hires new president

Lowell-based financial services agency Central Research Inc. (CRI) announced Monday (Feb. 3) a new member of its leadership team.

Bobby McKinnon, a retired officer in the Army, is the company’s new president. Scott Dillard will continue his role as CEO, where he will be responsible for leading the development and execution of long-term strategies, according to a news release.

“We’re fortunate to have someone of Bobby’s caliber and experience lead CRI,” Dillard said in a statement. “He brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to our team during an exciting time for the company. Bobby has a proven track record of developing and implementing key strategic initiatives that have led to growth and success in our industry.”

McKinnon has more than 25 years’ experience providing information technology solutions for the federal government, most recently serving as CEO of a nationwide professional services provider to federal, state and local agencies.

Before that, he served in executive roles for two different companies in the government contracting business. His military career includes serving as a project director/deputy project director with the U.S. Army Reserve Component Automation System and then as assistant program executive officer with the U.S. Army, Program Executive Office (PEO) Enterprise Information Systems.

At CRI, he will be responsible for corporate services, operations and business development for the company.

“I’m honored and excited about the opportunity to lead CRI,” McKinnon said in a statement. “I believe we have tremendous talent and opportunity to do great things. I look forward to working with the leadership team and other key personnel as we focus on diversifying our portfolio and growing our business.”

Dillard founded CRI in 2002 with his late father, Dr. Johnny Dillard. The company has several locations across the U.S., including a program office in Annandale, Va. CRI provides customized management and financial service solutions for government and commercial sectors.

In September, the company announced plans to build a new headquarters in Lowell. CRI employs about 280 people in Northwest Arkansas.