German technology company Kathrein Group establishes U.S. HQ in Richardson

Richardson has landed a German communications technology company that was drawn to the Telecom Corridor, where it will establish its U.S. headquarters.

Kathrein Group, which creates solutions for global communications, has planted its U.S. headquarters at Greenway Plaza II, 2400 Lakeside Boulevard in Richardson. The office will employ about 30 people, and 15 to 20 of which are expected to be local hires.

The office occupying a little more than 8,000 square feet will serve as a sales and customer support facility for the company.Jim Nevelle, who succeeds Manfred Muenzel, will serve as president and CEO of Kathrein in North America. Muenzel served the role since 1999.

"Establishing a presence in the Richardson Telecom Corridor is an important part of Kathrein’s fast- track growth strategy,” Nevelle said in a released statement. “With U.S. and Canadian spectrum licensing auctions and its implications for additional wireless and broadband growth, the new location not only gives us close proximity to some of the major players in the telecommunications industry but also gives us access to a significant pool of highly qualified telecom professionals.”

Prior to joining the company, Nevelle founded Sorrento Networks and served as it’s chief executive officer. He also held management positions at Verso Technologies, Verilink Corp.and XEL Communications.