New Hirschmann CEO Settles In

Mark Hendel

October 12, 2004 • Hirschmann Electronics, Germantown, Md., formerly PAT America, announced in August it has appointed Mark Hendel as chief executive officer. He is replacing Jack Scott, who is continuing to work with the company as a consultant. In an interview with Lift and Access, Hendel described how his work experience will strengthen the company, his philosophy and plans for growth, and what upcoming products to expect from Hirschmann Electronics.

Formerly acting as the CEO of Hirschmann France, Hendel also was the general manager of the Worldwide Excitation Systems division at ABB in Switzerland. Additionally, he's held various positions in sales, marketing, and financing in the turbocharger division at Honeywell, Torrance, Calif. Hendel said his experience in the industrial supplier settings will allow him to strengthen the relationship as a component and systems supplier to a limited number of OEMs, set up a distribution/dealer network, provide retrofitting experience, and market and advertise Hirschmann's products to specific industries.

When it comes to company growth, Hendel said: “We will focus on customer and legislative (safety) needs at the right price. We also will expand our approach to wheel loader and commercial vehicle weighing systems that will bring real economic value to the customer. Finally, we will strengthen our dealer network such that they become more active partners in our business.“

As the show season is only a few short months away, Hendel remained rather elusive about the new products Hirschmann will be introducing next year. At this point, Hendel said the company will continue to maximize development and technological resources for the U.S. market. “Safety considerations will become more evident, but to say more at this point would be giving away our secrets,“ he said. “Come see us at ConExpo in March to see for yourself!“