YKK AP America Inc. announced changes to its manufacturing leadership team.
Industry veteran and manufacturing executive, Rick Farmer has been hired to serve as vice president of commercial manufacturing. Greg Hultquist, formerly vice president of manufacturing operations, has been appointed to vice president of manufacturing strategy. Under their leadership, the company will continue to invest in improvements and expansion in the U.S. market to fulfill its purpose of building a better society through architectural products, say officials.
“We’re thrilled to announce these strategic appointments to our manufacturing leadership team,” says Oliver Stepe, president of YKK AP America Inc. “These changes lay a strong foundation for a heightened focus on improvement, growth and development of our residential and commercial manufacturing operations and workforce across the country.”
Rick Farmer, vice president of commercial manufacturing
Farmer comes to YKK AP with more than twenty years of experience in manufacturing operations within the industry, most recently with Viracon Glass. His senior manufacturing and management experience includes overseeing major capital projects as well as a large workforce. In his new role at YKK AP, he will directly oversee all commercial plant manufacturing operations in Dublin, Ga.
“I am proud to come on board with an industry leader like YKK AP. I strongly align with its vision to create value for customers, employees and society,” says Farmer. “Safety, quality and employee engagement in our manufacturing operations will be integral to our success as we move forward, and I look forward to working closely with the team to drive continued enhancements.”
Greg Hultquist, vice president of manufacturing strategy
Hultquist joined YKK AP in 2004. Most recently, he provided daily operational oversight of YKK AP’s commercial and residential plant operations. In his new role, Hultquist’s primary focus will be on major projects and initiatives at the enterprise level related to continuous improvement, digital transformation, and further technology advancements in all aspects of manufacturing.
“This is an exciting time for our industry as we continue to see a spike in demand for residential and commercial architectural products. I have full confidence in both leaders, and look forward to working together to expand our business,” says Stepe.
