Blount announces executive retirement and supply chain and manufacturing management changes
Blount International, Inc. announced Oct. 22 that Kenneth O. Saito, senior vice president – supply chain and manufacturing operations, will retire from the company, effective Dec. 31, 2013. Saito joined Blount in March 1973, and he has held various positions, including senior vice president ‑ manufacturing & operations; president of the Oregon Cutting Systems Group; and senior vice president ‑ finance & administration of Oregon Cutting Systems Group.
“Ken has had a remarkable career with Blount over the past 40 years,” stated Josh Collins, Blount’s chairman and CEO. “His leadership has contributed significantly to our success in becoming a leading company within our industry. We offer him our congratulations and best wishes as he transitions over the coming months to a well-deserved retirement.”
In advance of his retirement, Saito’s responsibilities will be divided among three new positions. David K. Parrish, currently Blount’s vice president of supply chain, has been elected senior vice president – global supply chain by the company’s board of directors, effective Nov. 1, 2013.
Also, William C. Alford, currently Blount’s vice president of continuous improvement and quality, and manager of Portland metro manufacturing operations, will assume the role of vice president – forestry, lawn and garden (FLAG) manufacturing, and he will be responsible for all FLAG manufacturing operations worldwide. Lastly, Jeffrey S. Moore, currently vice president of manufacturing development, will become vice president – operational excellence. Moore will be responsible for global continuous improvement efforts, including lean deployment and quality systems, and environmental, health and safety (EH&S) initiatives.
“We are fortunate to have strong leaders within the organization to step up and fill the roles needed to continue the significant progress we have made within our manufacturing and supply chain organization,” added Collins. “David, Bill and Jeff have worked closely with Ken in recent years, which will support a seamless transition over the coming months.”
