Mark Skonieczny takes the helm at REV Group

by AmericasBreaking NewsPeople

REV Group, Inc. (NYSE:REVG), a renowned designer and manufacturer of specialty vehicles, has declared the appointment of Mark Skonieczny as President and Chief Executive Officer with immediate effect. Skonieczny had previously filled the role of Interim CEO and Chief Financial Officer for the company.

Having joined the Board of Directors in January 2023, Skonieczny will continue his directorial duties. In tandem with his promotion, the company has initiated a comprehensive search for a new CFO to fill the void left by Skonieczny’s advancement.

Skonieczny brings to the role extensive financial and managerial experience, having previously served as Vice President and Corporate Controller of Adient PLC. In his 17-year tenure at Johnson Controls, he held an array of financial roles, including Vice President of Corporate Development, Finance Vice President of the Global Aftermarket-Power Solutions division, Finance Vice President of the Middle East, Latin America and NA Systems-Building Efficiency segment, and Assistant Corporate Controller.

REV Group’s Board Chairman, Paul Bamatter, expressed satisfaction at Skonieczny’s continuation in a lead role. “Mark has demonstrated the expertise and urgency towards action needed to profitably grow the business and provide its shareholders with long-term value. We have great confidence in Mark and believe that under his continued leadership, REV Group will accelerate its transformation,” said Bamatter.

Reacting to his appointment, Skonieczny said, “I look forward to serving as President and CEO at this pivotal time for REV Group. Over the past three months as interim CEO, I have been deeply engaged with our local teams to understand and implement action plans designed to quickly unlock value. With an unmatched portfolio of iconic brands, resilient operating model, and strong balance sheet, we have a significant opportunity to take our business forward.”

He added that he anticipates leveraging his deep understanding of the company to expedite strategic priorities, and expressed enthusiasm about the future growth of REV Group under his stewardship.

Blackline Safety appoints new VP of International Sales

by AmericasFeatured NewsPeople

Blackline Safety, a leading global provider of connected safety technology, has appointed Peter Attalla as Vice President, International Sales. Attalla, who has extensive experience in safety and operations excellence across a range of sectors, including energy, telecommunications, and chemicals, will be responsible for overseeing the company’s rapid growth and expansion in its Rest of World geography, which includes regions outside North America and Europe.

Attalla, who has previously worked with Blackline Safety products, spent over 15 years in senior roles at Husky Energy, where he focused on safety, growth, and operational management. Prior to his current appointment, he served as a Safety and Operational Consultant for Dupont Sustainable Solutions.

In his new role, Attalla will work with Blackline Safety’s distributor partnerships, local sales personnel, and global customers to promote the company’s innovative safety wearables, area gas monitors, and cloud-connected solutions. The appointment comes at a time when the company has seen significant growth in its Rest of World geography, driven by increasing customer demand.

“Peter’s leadership and experience will ensure Blackline continues to drive operations excellence as we shape the future of industrial work around the world,” said Sean Stinson, President and Chief Growth Officer. “We see significant growth potential in our Rest of World geography, and Peter’s previous client-side experience with Blackline’s products and services will allow him to seamlessly transition into this role.”

Attalla takes over from Neil Campbell, who is transitioning to the role of Advisor, Global Sales, after serving as Director of International Sales & Marketing for over a decade. During his tenure, Campbell established a strong presence for Blackline Safety through distribution across the Middle East, Australia, New Zealand, and Asia.

“We are incredibly grateful to Neil for his many years of service at Blackline,” said Stinson. “He has been instrumental in bringing Blackline’s revolutionary connected safety solutions to the international market, and we are looking forward to working with him in his new role.”

About Blackline Safety

Blackline Safety is a pioneering technology company that specialises in IoT (Internet of Things) and is committed to driving innovation in the industrial workforce. By utilising connected safety devices and predictive analytics, Blackline empowers companies to work towards zero safety incidents and improve operational performance. The company offers a range of products and services, including wearable devices, personal and area gas monitoring, cloud-connected software, and data analytics, that help organisations address challenging safety issues and enhance productivity. With a presence in over 100 countries, Blackline provides cellular and satellite connectivity that serves as a lifeline to tens of thousands of people. To date, the company has reported over 200 billion data points and initiated more than seven million emergency alerts.

FireMate appoints Peter Martin as UK Business Manager

by Featured NewsPeople

FireMate, a specialist in fire industry remote alarm management and software, has recently promoted its long-serving Sales Manager, Peter Martin, to the role of UK Business Manager. In his new position, Martin will be responsible for overseeing FireMate’s business operations in the UK and Europe.

Martin has been a member of the FireMate team since 2019, having previously served in various positions within the fire industry, including servicing extinguishers, installing and commissioning fire systems, as well as design and sales roles. His expertise in the fire industry and his enthusiasm for the company’s core product – the Nimbus remote fire alarm management platform – have made him an invaluable asset to the team.

“I am thrilled to take on this new role at FireMate,” said Martin. “Our industry is rapidly evolving, and I am eager to shape the future of fire safety by increasing the adoption of Nimbus and our fire protection maintenance software, both of which have the potential to be game-changing for end-users and fire installers. My objective is to raise awareness of our products and the multiple benefits they can offer.”

FireMate’s Managing Director, Mike Giuffrida, expressed his confidence in Martin’s abilities, saying: “We are delighted to promote Peter to the newly-created position of UK Business Manager. He has been a valuable member of our team for over four years, and we are excited to see what he will achieve with his expanded remit. Peter’s passion for the industry and commitment to FireMate’s products make him the ideal fit for this role.”

About FireMate

FireMate was created to address a critical and often legally mandated need for enhanced asset management, monitoring, and reporting in the fire sector. Developed by industry experts with a strong commitment to effective fire safety, FireMate’s fire protection maintenance software and remote fire alarm management represent a significant shift in the approach taken by many fire installers and their customers, providing them with greater oversight, awareness, and reassurance than ever before.

Mike Virnig and Andy Thompson to Lead REV Fire Group

by Featured NewsPeople

REV Group, the speciality designer and manufacturer of vehicles in the fire and emergency, commercial, and recreation industries, has announced the promotion of Mike Virnig and Andy Thompson to lead REV Fire Group. Effective immediately, Virnig will assume the role of President, REV Fire Group, replacing Dan DesRochers, while Thompson will serve as the Chief Operating Officer of REV Fire Group.

Virnig has been with REV Fire Group since 2018 and served as Vice President, Global Sales and Marketing. He has a remarkable knowledge and a commendable commercial track record in the fire apparatus industry, having previously served as the Vice President of Sales for Spartan Emergency Response and General Manager for Rush Peterbilt California, and has owned multiple companies throughout his career.

As President of REV Fire Group, Virnig will oversee fire apparatus brands E-ONE, KME, Ferrara, Spartan Fire Chassis, Spartan Emergency Response, Smeal, and Ladder Tower, and will report directly to Mark Skonieczny, Interim President and CEO of REV Group.

Thompson joined REV Group in 2021 as Vice President of Operations, bringing his extensive experience in manufacturing operations, supply chain, and Lean/Six Sigma methodologies to the REV enterprise.

As Chief Operating Officer of REV Fire Group, he will manage manufacturing operations across all brands. Prior to joining REV Group, Thompson was the Senior Director of Operations at L3 Harris Technologies and held progressive roles within Gleason Corporation and IMI plc.

Mark Skonieczny, Interim President and CEO, REV Group, said: “REV Fire Group has tremendous opportunity to continue its leadership in innovation and safety technology while delivering against strong demand.

“Mike and Andy have a proven track record of commercial and operational performance within the fire industry to unlock REV Fire Group’s full potential; we are excited for the future under their leadership.”

New product manager for FireAngel

by Featured NewsPeople

FireAngel, a leading manufacturer of home safety products, has appointed Martin Phillips as their new Trade Product Manager. With over 25 years of experience in senior product roles in the electrical engineering sector, Phillips will be responsible for enhancing the company’s longstanding commitment to providing innovative alarms to electrical contractors serving the UK housing market.

In his new role, Phillips will be working closely with FireAngel’s operations and development teams to further extend the company’s dedication to combining the highest standards of software and hardware to achieve compliant alarm systems that provide first-class protection and user experience.

Phillips’ focus will be on accelerating FireAngel’s product development journey throughout 2023. His extensive knowledge in product development and application will support the company in designing and developing certified products that add real value to their customers’ lives.

Speaking of his appointment, Phillips expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to work with the FireAngel team. “As a customer-centric business, we are committed to understanding exactly what our customers require, then designing and developing certified products that add real value to their lives,” he said.

Phillips also highlighted FireAngel’s commitment to incorporating environmental sensing technologies into their alarms. The company is dedicated to addressing external environmental factors, such as damp and mould, which have been made all the more prevalent by fuel poverty. Phillips emphasised the importance of building the necessary requirements into the company’s product development to provide installers and their customers with all-round protection.

Chief Technology Officer appointed at Bull Products

by Featured NewsPeople

Bull Products, a leading fire safety equipment supplier, has appointed Chris Bolger as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at the company. Bringing over 19 years of experience in the technology industry, he will lead Bull Products’ efforts in developing innovative technologies in the fire and safety sector.

Bolger is an accomplished engineering leader, having designed high volume, mass-market products, and has developed over 30 domestic home safety products in the last 13 years, resulting in sales of more than 10 million units. He holds a First-Class Honours degree in Industrial Design Technology from Brunel University London.

In his new role, Bolger will oversee the development of Bull Products’ next-generation fire safety products and will manage cross-functional teams in developing new solutions and technology-driven products to meet the business needs of today’s industry landscape.

Bolger said of his appointment: “I’m excited to join Bull Products and help drive innovation in the fire and safety industry. I look forward to working with the talented team to bring novel technologies to the market.”

Sandy Damm, CEO of Bull Products, also commented on the appointment, saying: “We are delighted to welcome Chris to the team. He’s the last jigsaw piece in our Exec team and we are thrilled to have him reinforcing us, we are now complete to deliver our 5-year ambitious growth plan. We have a strong focus on providing state-of-the-art protection equipment, and Chris’ extensive background and knowledge will help us take our technology offerings to the next level.”

Pierce Manufacturing names new President

by Featured NewsPeople

Bob Schulz has been appointed as President of Pierce Manufacturing, a subsidiary of Oshkosh Corporation. He will oversee Pierce, Airport Products (ARFF), and Frontline Communications brands as part of the new Vocational segment.

Jim Johnson, who has been leading Pierce since 2010, will continue to serve as the Executive Vice President of Oshkosh Corporation and President of the Vocational segment, overseeing the overall operations of several other subsidiaries including Oshkosh Airport Products and McNeilus refuse vehicles.

Speaking on his appointment, Schulz said: “I am honored for the opportunity to serve in this new role and to lead an outstanding team as we drive our strategic priorities.”

Schulz earned his Master of Business Administration from Marquette University and graduated from the University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign. He joined Pierce Manufacturing in 2004 and has gained significant leadership experience throughout his career. Schulz has held multiple roles in finance and most recently served as Aerial General Management during his 18-year tenure with Oshkosh Corporation.

Jim Johnson said: “Bob is a proven leader with a deep understanding of our Pierce, Airport Products and Frontline Communications businesses and our Dealer Network.

“We are excited and confident to have Bob’s strong leadership, customer relationships and drive for results steering these exceptional brands.”  

Alexandria Fire Department names new fire chief

by Featured NewsPeople
  • Sam Allen has been appointed as the new fire chief at Alexandria Fire Department, replacing former chief Larry King
  • The City also announced the appointment of an interim chief of police at the Alexandria Police Department, Chad Gremillion
  • The recent chief appointments and other new positions mark the completion of leadership changes to address public safety

The City of Alexandria in Louisiana has announced the appointment of Sam Allen as the new fire chief at the Alexandria Fire Department (AFD). With almost 15 years of experience at AFD and traveling across the US to teach fire science curriculum to fire and police personnel, Chief Allen was chosen out of 16 candidates who applied for the position to replace former AFD Chief Larry King, who retired from the department in December 2021.

The selection process had stalled under the previous administration, despite a fire chief being expected to be selected by the Fire and Police Civil Service Board in July 2022. However, the process ramped back up again when current Alexandria Mayor Jacques Roy was elected into office during the November Primary election.

Interim Chief of Police

In addition to Chief Allen’s appointment, the City also announced an interim chief of police at the Alexandria Police Department. Interim Chief Chad Gremillion was officially sworn in on April 5, taking over the department for former Chief Ronney Howard, who transitioned into a new role as the Director of Public Safety Special Services. The search for a new APD Chief began on April 6, as Mayor Roy called for the police chief exam to be put out.

The City of Alexandria stated that the recent chief appointments at AFD and APD, along with several new positions, mark the completion of leadership changes to address public safety. At the fire department, Jeff Tarver will remain on staff as the Executive Officer for AFD, while for the police department, Chief Gremillion will also have assistance as Lt. Darrell Bradley was named as the Chief’s Executive Officer and Lillie Evans will return to Assistant Chief.

Two key promotions at Performance Advantage Company announced

by Featured NewsPeople

Performance Advantage Company (PAC) has announced the promotion of two of key employees as of 1 February 2023.

Greg Young, who is about to complete his 11th year with the company and most recently has served as PACs Vice President of Sales and Operations, has assumed the position of Senior Administrative Vice President’, solidifying his role in continuing to lay the groundwork for PACs growth and development into the future, as well as to ensure PAC’s long-term contribution in the emergency services industry.

One of Young’s key responsibilities is administering to the very important area of product development, as well as overseeing development in information technology, internal systems management, and oversight regarding intellectual properties.

Tom Trzepacz, who has served as a member of PAC’s Customer Support Team since 2007, has been promoted to the newly created position of Vice President of Sales and Customer Relations. Having served over 25 years as a firefighter and 17 of those as a Chief, Trzepacz’s position will see him serve as the “go to” person in administering to PAC’s very high standards in customer service and support. In addition, he is charged with the further development of programs and business relations in all industries served by PAC.

Commenting on the appointments, PAC said: “Both gentlemen have worked hard in achieving these positions, and we here at PAC are confident and proud, that with their leadership, PAC will continue to raise the bar in servicing our customer with high quality products, while maintaining competitive pricing, and the very best in customer service. Congratulations to Greg and Tom on achieving these well-earned positions.

“We would also like to acknowledge that show season is here! We can’t wait to get out and see you all and share what’s new with PAC! We have some exciting revisions to our current lineup of brackets as well as some new products we are eager to unveil.

“To find out what shows we will be attending and anything else PAC related, follow us on social media, give us a call or check out our website.”

Rosenbauer America announces Randy Brummel as new President

by Breaking NewsPeople

Rosenbauer America, a leading manufacturer of fire apparatus, has announced the appointment of Randy Brummel as President. With an extensive history in the fire industry and previous leadership roles at Rosenbauer, Brummel is well-prepared to lead the company into the future.

Brummel joined Rosenbauer as the Vice President of Supply Chain, bringing his extensive expertise in operations and the fire industry. He later accepted the position of Executive Vice President of Operations in 2022 and has been a driving force for quality, productivity, and unification of the Minnesota, South Dakota, and Nebraska campuses.

The company’s purpose remains to support the mission of saving lives and protecting property. Brummel’s focus continues to be building the industry’s best custom fire trucks, operational excellence, dealer development, financial discipline, customer satisfaction, and serving first responders.

“I am truly honoured and excited for the opportunity to lead the best fire apparatus manufacturer in the industry,” said Brummel. “Our commitment continues in best in quality, on-time delivery, with a focus on exceeding customer expectations. I feel we have set a great course and that path is to be fire department’s preferred apparatus manufacturer.”

Brummel said of Mark Fusco, who he succeeds as President at Rosenbauer America. “I would like to thank Mark Fusco for his tenure at Rosenbauer America and wish him continued success in his future endeavours.

“I have learned a great deal from all the team members at Rosenbauer America over these past three years and appreciate your continued support as we enter Rosenbauer’s next chapter together.”