WHITE BEAR LAKE, MINN. (December 13, 2012) – Wilson Tool International today announced the appointments of Chris Lawless as President and Paul Johnson as President of New Business Development.
As President, Lawless will be responsible for managing Wilson Tool International’s operations in North and South America. Under his leadership, the company will continue to focus on developing innovative tooling solutions and delivering the highest level of customer service in the industry.
Lawless joined Wilson Tool in 1992 and helped create the company’s first manufacturing engineering department. He has served as Vice President of Operations for the punching division since 2002, during which time he managed the implementation of the company’s SAP system. Lawless earned a degree in industrial engineering from Iowa State University and an MBA in finance with an emphasis on venture capitalism from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul.
In the newly created position of President of New Business Development, Johnson will lead the company’s exploration of new business opportunities that will further strengthen Wilson Tool Enterprises.
Johnson has been with Wilson Tool since 1987, holding various leadership positions within the company. Since 2001, Johnson has been Vice President of Operations for Wilson Tool’s press brake and stamping divisions. He holds a degree in machine technology from Century College, is a member and former president of the North American Punch Manufacturers Association (NAPMA) and a member of the Paradigm Group, an executive manufacturing group focused on lean manufacturing.
The changes to Wilson Tool’s leadership will take effect January 1, 2013. Lawless and Johnson will continue to report to Wilson Tool Enterprises CEO, Brian Robinson.
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December 13, 2012