Gary Kennon, president of Vehicle Service Group (VSG), has been promoted to executive vice president of the Dover Engineered Systems Group (DES) as part of a business restructuring announced by VSG’s parent company, Dover. In his new role, Kennon will have oversight for five Dover operating companies as well as responsibility for the segment’s operational excellence and supply chain programs.
Dover announced it has realigned its businesses into a new segment structure organized around its key end markets to better focus on growth strategies. VSG is part of the DES segment, which is comprised of companies that design, manufacture and service critical equipment and components serving the printing and identification, transportation, waste handling and industrial end markets.
Kennon’s promotion will eventually take him to Dover headquarters in Downers’ Grove, Ill. Dover has begun the search to replace him, and to assure a smooth transition, Kennon will continue to support VSG until a new president is appointed.
Kennon’s career with VSG has spanned nearly 30 years, beginning in 1984 as a design engineer. During this time, his progressively responsible roles have included engineering manager, general manager of the in-ground/heavy-duty and specialty products business unit, international sales manager and vice president of business development. He has served as president of VSG since 2005.
Kennon led the formation of VSG in 2009 by bringing together Rotary Lift Consolidated with sister company Chief Automotive Technologies. He has also overseen a number of global acquisitions in Germany, Asia and the Americas including Hanmecson in China and both Blitz and Elektron in Germany. Under Kennon’s leadership, VSG has grown from being solely a lift supplier in a predominantly North American market, to being a global leader in the vehicle service equipment market with a portfolio of industry-leading brands offering lifts, collision repair equipment, air compressors and welders.
“There is no doubt I leave VSG with very mixed emotions,” said Kennon. “On one hand, I have spent the better part of my life working with great teams to build and shape this great company and it will be difficult to leave friends and colleagues. At the same time, I also look forward to the challenges this new role will present and the opportunity to contribute through additional Dover companies. I am confident VSG will remain in great hands and the leadership team will continue to focus on both its long-term growth initiatives, and the people who have made VSG what it is today — its customers, suppliers and employees.”
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