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Systel Founder Keith Allison transitions to chairman role as next generation of leadership takes helm

By Staff Report, posted Oct 8, 2025 on BizFayetteville.com

Photo provided by Systel

After deliberate planning and preparation, Systel Business Equipment is entering a new chapter of executive leadership. Janene Aul has been appointed CEO, Jacqueline Smith as president and Cara Spencer as vice president. Together, they will form the executive board, working as a united team while bringing their individual expertise to the table. 

This transition has been years in the making under the guidance of Systel’s founder, Keith Allison, who will step into a new role as chairman. In this capacity he will continue to advise the board, provide oversight of financial strategy and support other high-level functions. 

Over the past five years, Systel has expanded its footprint across South Carolina with acquisitions and the opening of new offices in Florence and Greenville, and by establishing dedicated sales and service teams supporting the Columbia and Charleston markets. Most recently, Systel strengthened its regional presence through the acquisition of a competing dealer

in Florence, enhancing both market share and service capabilities. With these strategic expansions, Systel now proudly serves customers throughout the entire states of North Carolina and South Carolina, and portions of Georgia, Tennessee and Virginia.

“Since founding Systel in 1981, my vision has always been to build a company rooted in relationships and customer service,” said Founder and Chairman Keith Allison in a press release. “While I will remain involved as Chairman, I have full confidence in Janene, Jacqueline and Cara to carry forward that vision. They know this business from the ground up, and I could not be prouder of the success they’ve accomplished so far, and to see them step into these leadership roles.”

Janene, Jacqueline and Cara have been in and around the business their entire lives. Each has nearly 20 years of professional tenure with Systel and has worked in multiple areas of the company. 

“It is an honor to lead Systel into its next chapter alongside Jacqueline and Cara,” said

Chief Executive Officer Janene Au in a press release. “We are committed to building on the foundation of customer service excellence that our father established, while positioning Systel for continued growth and future success. Our goal is to carry that forward with innovation and teamwork that continue to serve Systel, its customers and employees.”

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