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Klein Tools announced today that Mathias Klein III (Mat) will retire as chairman of the board in June, 2015, but will continue to serve on the company’s board of directors. This marks a 46 year career with Klein Tools for Mat.
Upon Mat’s retirement, current president Thomas R. Klein Sr. (Tom) will succeed him as chairman. Additionally, Mark Klein, vice president of domestic sales, and Thomas Klein Jr. (Tom Jr.), general manager of heavy infrastructure, will be promoted and serve as co-presidents of Klein Tools effective January 1, 2015.
As Tom moves to chairman, Mark Klein will assume the new role of president of sales and marketing and will be responsible for global marketing, sales and customer service. He will also manage the company’s cutlery division in New York, Klein Cutlery and Klein Tools de Mexico affiliates.
Thomas Klein Jr., (Tom Jr.) will assume a new role as president of operations and research and development. Tom Jr. will be responsible for Klein Tools’ manufacturing, operations and new product development functions. He will also manage two of the company’s international affiliates, Civitella & Cia in Brazil and Mumme Tools in Australia.
Mark Klein was named vice president domestic sales in 2012. He has been leading Klein’s domestic sales operations, including the development of strategic marketing initiatives, such as the company’s launch of the camouflage limited-edition pliers and the “Electrician of the Year” programs in 2013.
“Mat and I feel strongly that Mark Klein, Tom Klein Jr. and the entire leadership team are ready for more responsibility to maintain the growth momentum and lead Klein Tools forward.” Thomas R. Klein Sr. continued, “Mark and Tom Jr. have committed to driving the organization forward through continued investment in R&D, people and world-class manufacturing processes, thus we feel now is the time to begin the transition.”
