O'Neill Consulting Group Recruits Chief Operating Officer for Dexter Axle
Ed Kopkowski brings operational excellence to growing manufacturing company
BOSTON, July 28, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- O'Neill Consulting Group has placed Edward Kopkowski as Chief Operating Officer of Dexter Axle, the leading North American manufacturer of trailer axles and trailer brakes. In his new role, Kopkowski will provide direct operational leadership for the company's plants in five states and its extensive distribution network. He will report to and support Chief Executive Officer Adam Dexter in developing the firm's strategic growth plans, business goals, and performance objectives.
"Ed brings proven capabilities in effective multi-site management that will help us grow, boost market share, and enhance profitability," Dexter said. "He thrives in a dynamic, complex, and increasingly global manufacturing environment and understands the importance of high quality customer service in our business. Add his track record in driving continuous improvement in all aspects of operations and you have good reason to be bullish on our future."
Headquartered in Elkhart, Indiana, Dexter's four business units include Dexter Axle, Unique Functional Products, Ventline, and Dexter Door. It is a privately owned portfolio company of The Sterling Group, a private equity investment firm specializing in the manufacturing, distribution, and industrial-service space.
"I'm extremely pleased to take on this role," Kopkowski said. "Dexter is known for more than being technically savvy. It's an innovative, highly responsive group of people committed to providing exceptional products backed by the best possible customer service. I look forward to building on that foundation and driving even higher levels of performance, with improvements to design, processes, and productivity."
Kopkowski's career is distinguished by progressively larger senior leadership positions with prominent names in the automotive and transportation industry including A123 Systems, Dana Corporation, Hayes Lemmerz International, and Pilkington. He is a graduate of Purdue University, with a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, and has a master's degree in Management from Nazareth College.
Kevin O'Neill, founder and Managing Partner of O'Neill Consulting Group, noted that Kopkowski's impressive background reflects his potential to make a meaningful impact.
"Ed has proven ability leading innovative adaptation in all aspects of operational management for big manufacturing organizations," he said. "I believe he will be extremely effective as COO and will work well with the entire leadership to set – and achieve – ambitious goals. All of us at O'Neill are proud that we could play a part in driving a process that resulted in a successful hire for Adam and the Dexter Axle organization."
About O'Neill Consulting Group
O'Neill Consulting Group is a global retained executive search firm with a client-centered approach. Our team connects deeply with hiring decision makers to deliver mid-management and strategic hires who positively impact the business performance of our client organizations. With offices in the Americas, EMEA, and Asia Pacific, the firm serves all major sectors with strong market insights and functional expertise. Learn more: www.oneillconsulting.com
SOURCE O'Neill Consulting Group
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