Ennen named Manitowoc SVP of engineering and innovation

Jens Ennen has been named senior vice president of engineering and innovation at Manitowoc Cranes. He is responsible for further developing the culture of innovation and new technologies within Manitowoc Cranes, according to the company.

In addition, he will work with his team to improve processes and engineering best practices throughout the entire cranes organization, working with regional executive vice presidents and the global marketing department to develop successful products that fulfill the needs of Manitowoc customers.

Ennen will report directly to Eric Etchart, president and general manager of Manitowoc Cranes.

Etchart says that Ennen's vast crane expertise will be a major asset in this role. "In addition to Jens' advanced degrees in engineering, he has a strong focus on execution, excellent product knowledge and a good relationship with our customers," Etchart said. "He is accomplished at driving product design initiatives and making a strong link with operations, quality and purchasing functions."

Prior to his promotion, Ennen was director of engineering for mobile cranes. He has been with the Grove organization since 1996, working in various engineering and engineering management positions. Prior to joining Grove, he worked for Krupp.

Ennen will be based in Wilhelmshaven, Germany until summer of 2012, when he and his family will relocate to Shady Grove, Pennsylvania, where the Grove manufacturing facility is located.