Winnebago Industries has appointed Chris West to the position of vice president of operations, effective Sept. 26.
West will report directly to President and CEO Michael Happe and have responsibility for the entire manufacturing, supply chain and quality value streams across the Winnebago-branded enterprise, which includes support to both the motorhome and towable businesses.
West previously was vice president of global supply chain for Joy Global, a worldwide mining equipment manufacturer. Before that position, he was vice president of manufacturing at Joy Global. Other positions West has held include director of manufacturing for AGCO Corp., an agricultural equipment manufacturer and director of operations for the Nordam Group, a manufacturer of aircraft interiors.
“Chris brings a tremendous set of operations leadership and change management skills with him to Winnebago, including a multitude of Lean manufacturing and supply chain transformation experiences,” said Happe. “Winnebago’s product portfolio, manufacturing footprint and supply chain complexity have all increased significantly in recent years with our entrance into the Towables segment, our growth in Class B vans, strategic sourcing initiative and the expansion of manufacturing and service to Junction City, Ore. As we move forward with these initiatives, Chris’ experience will be invaluable as we look to drive even higher levels of manufacturing output, operating efficiency, product quality and employee-led innovation.”
West has a bachelor’s degree in industrial operations management from Northeastern State University in the Tulsa, Okla., area, and a master’s of business administration from Baker University in Baldwin City, Kan.