SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Gradient, a company reimagining HVAC with sustainable, high-performance solutions, today announced the appointment of Patrick Bischoff as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). A seasoned executive with extensive experience in enterprise SaaS software, climate tech, and renewable energy, Bischoff brings a proven track record of scaling high-growth companies and driving sustainable innovation. He has been instrumental in several IPOs and successful strategic sales as an operator, investor, and private/public board member. Dr. Vince Romanin, who co-founded Gradient and previously served as CEO, will continue to support the long-term vision and strategy of the company as Chief Technology Officer. Jane Sidebottom, a growth-oriented business leader with 25 years of experience in market and business development, marketing, and general management experience, including tenures at Carrier and Trane, has joined Gradient’s board.
Bischoff joins Gradient at a pivotal moment, as the Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE) recently established a new category for room heat pumps. Based on its efficiency ratings, Gradient’s All-Weather 120V Window Heat Pump meets the highest level within CEE’s specification, the Advanced Tier. This recognition opens the door to significant opportunities for homeowners and businesses. As of January 1, CEE-certified room heat pumps qualify for up to $3,200 in IRA tax credits for homeowners, and programs that reference CEE may soon offer incentives for this product category.
"Gradient's mission to decarbonize the HVAC industry while creating comfortable living environments resonates deeply with my professional goals and personal values," said Patrick Bischoff. "The company's innovative technology and partnership with such institutions as the New York City Housing Authority demonstrate its potential to lead transformative change in residential heating and cooling. I look forward to working with the talented Gradient team to scale our impact and accelerate the transition to sustainable energy solutions."
Bischoff brings over two decades of leadership experience in renewable energy, enterprise software, and climate technology. Most recently, he served as Chief Operating Officer at Recurve, where he successfully transformed the company's business model, operationalized market offerings, and secured additional funding. His previous energy-related roles include executive and board positions at World Energy Solutions (formerly Nasdaq: XWES) and Greensmith Energy Solutions, where he led the reorientation of the company and strategic growth initiatives that increased revenue from $500,000 to $30 million, culminating in a successful acquisition by Wärtsilä Corporation.
"Patrick's deep expertise in scaling climate tech companies and his passionate commitment to sustainability make him the ideal leader to guide Gradient through its next phase of growth," said Dr. Vince Romanin, Gradient's Co-Founder and previous CEO. "His track record of building high-performance teams and driving operational excellence will be instrumental as we expand our reach and impact in the HVAC industry."
With a business and engineering background from the University of Stuttgart (Germany) and as a graduate of Thunderbird School of Global Management with the highest distinction, Bischoff combines technical expertise with global business acumen. His vision for Gradient is to unlock the company’s full potential by making bold, informed decisions that challenge the status quo while staying true to Gradient’s customers and core mission. Bischoff is steadfast in his belief that Gradient is at an inflection point with the potential to lead transformative change in the industry. With his leadership, Gradient aims to address the $200B global HVAC market and the potential to significantly reduce onsite carbon emissions.
Gradient is celebrating a major milestone alongside its leadership transition with its groundbreaking All-Weather 120V Window Heat Pump units shipping. Engineered for year-round comfort, these units perform efficiently in extreme cold and hot climates. With a sleek design and plug-and-play compatibility with standard 120V outlets, the All-Weather 120V is poised to transform sustainable heating and cooling, underscoring Gradient’s commitment to electrifying and decarbonizing buildings nationwide.
About Gradient
Gradient is rethinking HVAC with innovative, sustainable solutions designed for a decarbonized future. Our All-Weather 120V Window Heat Pump delivers year-round performance with unmatched efficiency and ease of installation, eliminating the barriers of traditional systems. Backed by a team of industry leaders, including talent from Tesla and Nest, Gradient is committed to redefining heating and cooling for modern buildings while minimizing environmental impact. In addition to venture funding, the company has secured non-dilutive funding from the U.S. Department of Energy, California Energy Commission, California Strategic Growth Council, and others. To learn more, visit gradientcomfort.com.
