Klein Tools Leadership Changing as Mathias Klein Announces He Will Step Down
The Klein Tools leadership tree will be changing a bit next year. Mathias (Mat) Klein III, named after Mathias Klein that 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 still be in Klein hands as current President, Thomas R. Klein, Sr. will take over as Chairman. Mark Klein, who is currently VP of domestic sales along with Thomas Klein, Jr., currently General Manager of heavy infrastructure, will step up as Co-Presidents beginning January 1, 2015.
Reflecting on Mat’s career with Klein Tools,Thomas R. Klein Sr. stated that “Mat 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.”
In speaking about Thomas’ position change to Chairman, Mat tells us that “Under Tom’s leadership as president, Klein Tools not only survived the recession, 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.”
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 also will be in charge of the Klein Cutlery division in New York as well as Klein Tools de Mexico affiliates. Thomas, Jr. takes on the role of President of Operations as well as Research and Development. Tom will be responsible for manufacturing, operations, and new product development. He also will manage a pair of international affiliates – Civitella & Cia in Brazil and Mumme Tools in Australia.
Klein Tools leadership has a history of being built from within the family, with every member being offered a permanent position and ownership of the company. Having had the chance to visit with the Klein family at their Mansfield, Texas facility, I can say that these are some of the best folks in the industry. I’m excited for the chance for Mat to enjoy the golden years of retirement and for the opportunities that are bring provided for Tom, Sr., Tom, Jr., and Mark to move up and show off their talents. For more information on Klein Tools’ history and commitment to manufacturing in the US, check out our story “Made in America: The Klein Tools Story“.
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