Starco prepares for ‘new generation’ of Schaad management
In recent years agricultural implement manufacturers have developed a range of modern implements and tractors that often demand wheels and tyres specifically designed and manufactured for the application. Starco recognised this trend some years ago and has focused on providing a comprehensive range of wheel and tyre solutions, including its own tyre brand. It has also strengthened its position within the sector through acquisitions of and strategic partnerships with specialist manufacturing companies.
One such partnership was with Swiss dual wheel systems manufacturer GS Schaad, which began in 2009. Starco says this partnership has now “progressed to the extent that GS Schaad and its unique range of products is an integral part of Starco Europe – giving Starco access to the world’s foremost agricultural dual wheel technology, and giving implement manufacturers and aftermarket stockists access to the combined resources of the Starco group.”
The Swiss company is now preparing for a new generation of management, and as part of this Schaad and Starco have announced an upcoming key appointment. Sven Holmes, who joined the management team on July 1st 2011 and took on immediate and full operational responsibility for Schaad, will succeed Fritz Schaad as managing director, effective 1 January 2012.
Prior to joining Schaad, Holmes worked for GKN Wheels; he began with the company in 1999 and was employed in various roles, including lean enterprise manager in China and manufacturing manager and supply chain manager in the UK. Feathers in his cap at GKN include supply to a number of agricultural sector OEM customers, including JCB, CAT, CNH and John Deere, implementing numerous Lean projects and having an in-depth understanding of wheel manufacture. Based on this experience, Starco believes Holmes “has the ideal experience to guide the Starco/Schaad operation to the next level.”
Holmes’s first priorities in his new role include meeting all existing customers, and gaining an understanding of the required service levels and challenges in 2012; the implementation of a new supply chain strategy that will echo the goals and methods of Starco group strategy; to achieve improved delivery performance and an enhanced level of responsive and flexible service throughout the supply chain to both OEM and aftermarket customers; and the development of Schaad’s recruitment, training and organisation.
This appointment represents “a new and exciting chapter in Schaad’s history,” Starco comments, a chapter that is “underpinned by Starco’s commitment to high product and logistics quality based on the heritage of Swiss engineering and manufacturing excellence.” The Danish company adds that Holmes will benefit from the continued support of Fritz and Rudi Schaad as he begins his new endeavour.
Related news:
Comments