Replacing 29-year veteran Ken Loh will be Peter McLean
Handling equipment specialist Kalmar has appointed Peter McLean as its new head of Asia-Pacific, succeeding the outgoing Ken Loh.
While Loh has chosen to leave the company to pursue external interests, Kalmar says he will remain as an advisor to McLean until mid-2017 to ensure a smooth transition.
With a history in the Asia-Pacific region having previously served as Kalmar’s Australia and New Zealand vice president, Kalmar president Antti Kaunonen says McLean is “perfect” replacement for Loh.
“I am pleased to find a successor within the company,” Kaunonen says, highlighting his more than 20 years of experience in the mining, heavy construction, power systems and container handling industries.
“Peter McLean was recently appointed President of Bromma but his long experience in Kalmar and in the APAC region makes him a perfect match for this role.
“I want to wish Peter the best of success in his new role.”
While McLean will remain the president of Bromma until a replacement is found, the new head says he is focused on the “enormous” “opportunity that lies ahead for the APAC region”.
“The possibility given to me to lead this next chapter is deeply humbling and incredibly exhilarating,” he says.
“I am honoured to take over a successful business and a great team from Ken.
“Over the past 29 years, Ken’s vision and leadership have built Asia-Pacific into one of the most dynamic and diverse regions; a territory fiercely committed to delivering results for our customers, shareholders, partners, and employees.”
“I am committed to accelerating innovation and executing our strategy: that is what our customers need from us.”
On Loh, Kaunonen says he has had “a long and very impressive career within Kalmar and he has played a major role in building our success in the Asia-Pacific region.”
“He joined Kalmar Singapore in 1987 as a management trainee,” Kaunonen says.
“Two years later, he started Kalmar’s business in Greater China.
“In 2000, he began to lead the operation in Asia and has delivered many sales records and successful transformation projects over the years.
“Ken’s ability to build motivation and commitment in his team is truly unique.
“I want to thank him for his notable contribution and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”