Cobra Electronics Corp., maker of CB radios and radar detectors, said its chief financial officer Michael Smith is resigning effective Jan. 31.

The Chicago-based designer and marketer of mobile communications and navigation products named Bob Ben, vice president and corporate controller, as interim CFO while Cobra launches a search for a permanent replacement.

Smith has accepted a position as chief operating officer of a closely held apparel company, the company said.

“I have been offered an opportunity to expand my professional capabilities with a broader scope of responsibilities and new growth avenues,” said Smith in a prepared statement.

Cobra is scheduled to release its fourth quarter and year-end financial results on Feb. 25.

smjones@tribune.com