Konecranes designates new CEO

The Board of Directors of Konecranes Plc has appointed Rob Smith as president and CEO of Konecranes effective February 1, 2020. As of today, the company’s CFO, Teo Ottola, who also serves as deputy CEO, will be acting as the interim CEO until Rob Smith starts in the position.

“Konecranes has concluded the integration following the MHPS acquisition that took place almost three years ago,” said Christoph Vitzthum, chairman of the board, Konecranes. ”The company is now ready for the next phase in its development, and for that I am pleased to extend a warm welcome to Rob Smith, who is a global leader with a track record in achieving market leadership positions through innovative business strategies, deep expertise in digitalization and strong customer focus.”

Rob Smith joins Konecranes from AGCO Corporation, where his latest position has been senior vice president and general manager, Europe and Middle East. Prior to this, he has worked in business leadership roles in TRW Automotive, Tyco Electronics and Bombardier Transportation, among others. Smith is 54 years old and is a dual citizen of both Germany and the United States. 

“It will be a great privilege to lead Konecranes on its path of profitable growth,” said Smith. “Konecranes is a global industrial company with committed, talented people and impressive technology. I am excited about working with an exceptional team of leaders to take this special company and our customers’ businesses to new levels of achievement, success and growth.”