Douglas Dynamics announces planned CEO transition
Douglas Dynamics, Inc. – manufacturer of Fisher, Henderson, SnowEx and Western snow and ice control equipment, as well as a leading upfitter of work vehicles and manufacturer of storage solutions for trucks and vans under the Dejana brand – announced its planned CEO transition.
James L. Janik will transition from his role as president and chief executive officer, effective December 31, 2018, to lead the board of directors as executive chairman. The board of directors has appointed current chief operating officer Robert McCormick to serve as successor to Janik as president and CEO, with his appointment to be effective January 1, 2019.
During Janik’s 26-year career at the company, Douglas Dynamics has grown from a privately held company with approximately 250 employees and two manufacturing facilities to a NYSE-listed public company with approximately 1,700 employees. The company has more than 20 facilities focused on manufacturing and servicing customers, and sells products in 23 countries throughout North America, Europe and Asia.
Janik oversaw the introduction of products and technology that have revolutionized the commercial snow and ice removal industry. Highlights include the launch and proliferation of hydraulically operated winged plows, mechanically operated winged plows, liquid deicing and anti-icing solutions, and off-truck products including UTV plows and rotary brooms.
Under Janik’s leadership, Douglas Dynamics created its proprietary lean manufacturing system known as the Douglas Dynamics Management System (DDMS). Through the use of DDMS principles, the company utilizes systematic problem solving and effective resource management to continuously improve and consistently produce the highest-quality products at industry-leading levels of service and delivery. The DDMS began in manufacturing operations and now extends across the entire enterprise and has been an integral component of the company’s acquisition strategy, further strengthening the organization’s market-leading position.
“During my 26 years at Douglas Dynamics, the Company and industry have experienced dramatic changes, and I am proud of my contributions and everything we have accomplished together,” said Janik. “The strength of this Company is driven by all its employees and the culture of teamwork and continuous improvement we have cultivated over the years. Given Bob’s achievements and experience, as well as the depth of the overall management team, I firmly believe this is the perfect time for me to start to transition the CEO role.”
McCormick said, “I am honored to have the opportunity to lead Douglas Dynamics and build upon our achievements. We have a fantastic team in place, and we will strive to realize our considerable potential. Jim and I have forged a strong and effective working partnership over the past 14 years, which will continue going forward. We all look forward to continuing to benefit from Jim’s knowledge and expertise.”
