MADISON, Ind. (March 10, 2014) — Dover Corp. has promoted Gary Kennon, president of Dover's Vehicle Service Group (VSG) unit, to executive vice president of Dover Engineered Systems Group (DES).
In his new role, Mr. Kennon will have oversight for five Dover operating companies as well as responsibility for the segment's operational excellence and supply chain programs.
Dover said it has realigned its businesses into a new segment structure organized around its key end markets to better focus on growth strategies. VSG is part of the DES unit, which comprises companies that design, manufacture and service critical equipment and components serving the printing and identification, transportation, waste handling and industrial end markets.
Mr. Kennon's promotion eventually will take him to Dover headquarters in Downers' Grove, Ill., the company said. While Dover has begun the search to replace him, to assure a smooth transition, Mr. Kennon will continue to support VSG until a new president is appointed.
VSG comprises Dover's various vehicle service equipment businesses, including Rotary Lift.
Mr. Kennon's career with VSG has spanned nearly 30 years, Dover said, beginning in 1984 as a design engineer. During this time, his roles have included engineering manager, general manager of the inground/heavy-duty and specialty products business unit, international sales manager, and vice president of business development. He has served as president of VSG since 2005.
Mr. Kennon led the formation of VSG in 2009, Dover said, by bringing together Rotary Lift Consolidated with sister Dover company Chief Automotive Technologies. He has also overseen a number of global acquisitions in Germany, Asia and the Americas including Hanmecson in China and both Blitz and Elektron in Germany, according to Dover.
“There is no doubt I leave VSG with very mixed emotions,” Mr. Kennon said in a Dover press release. “On one hand, I have spent the better part of my life working with great teams to build and shape this great company and it will be difficult to leave friends and colleagues.
“At the same time, I also look forward to the challenges this new role will present and the opportunity to contribute through additional Dover companies. I am confident VSG will remain in great hands and the leadership team will continue to focus on both its long term growth initiatives, and the people who have made VSG what it is today—its customers, suppliers and employees.”