The Klein Tools leadership tree will undergo some changes next year. Mathias (Mat) Klein III, named after Mathias Klein, who started the company in 1857, will be stepping down as Chairman of the Board in June of 2015. While he will still serve on the board of Klein Tools, this caps a 46-year career with the company. The family-owned and run company will remain in Kleinโs hands, as the current President, Thomas R. Klein, Sr., will take over as Chairman. Mark Klein, currently VP of domestic sales, along with Thomas Klein, Jr., General Manager of heavy infrastructure, will step up as Co-Presidents beginning January 1, 2015.
Background and Details
Reflecting on Matโs career with Klein Tools, Thomas R. Klein Sr. stated that โMat will be long remembered for his steadfast commitment to the company. With his leadership and vision, Klein Tools is in a better position today than when he started years ago.โ
In speaking about Thomasโ position change to Chairman, Mat tells us thatย โUnder Tomโs leadership as president, Klein Tools not only survived the recession, but it emerged stronger and became the undisputed leader in the hand tool industry. His compelling vision ultimately drove Klein to become the world-class manufacturer and new product development machine that it is today. In his new role as chairman, Tom will be in a position to continue to help drive Klein Tools into the future.โ
Mark Klein will have several new responsibilities under his title. As President of Sales and Marketing, he will run global marketing, sales, and customer service. He will also be in charge of the Klein Cutlery division in New York, as well as Klein Tools de Mexico affiliates. Thomas, Jr. assumes the roles of President of Operations and Research and Development. Tom will be responsible for manufacturing, operations, and new product development. He will also manage a pair of international affiliates โ Civitella & Cia in Brazil and Mumme Tools in Australia.
Klein Toolsโ leadership has a history of being built from within the family, with every member being offered a permanent position and a stake in the company. Having had the opportunity to visit with the Klein family at their facility in Mansfield, Texas, I can say that these are some of the best individuals in the industry. Iโm excited for the chance for Mat to enjoy the golden years of retirement and for the opportunities being provided for Tom, Sr., Tom, Jr., and Mark to move up and showcase their talents. For more information on Klein Toolsโ history and commitment to manufacturing in the US, check out our story โMade in America: The Klein Tools Story.โ
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