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Experienced Midwest Manufacturing Leader Chris Bernauer Joins the Company to Lead its Commercial Snow & Ice Control Operations
MILWAUKEE, Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Douglas Dynamics, Inc. (NYSE: PLOW), North America’s premier manufacturer and upfitter of work truck attachments and equipment, today announced the appointment of Chris Bernauer as President of Work Truck Attachments, effective February 28, 2025.
During his career, Bernauer has gained extensive experience in manufacturing, engineering, product development, sales and marketing, and dealer engagement, primarily in the automotive, motorcycle and marine sectors. Most recently, he served as President & CEO of Temperature Systems Inc. Prior to that, he was President of Harris & Cypress Cay Pontoons, a division of Brunswick Corporation, and held a variety of roles at the Harley-Davidson Motor Company.
“Chris is a dynamic leader who has successfully led large multinational teams as well as small, entrepreneurial units, consistently delivering strong financial and operational performance,” said Mark Van Genderen, Chief Operating Officer of Douglas Dynamics. “With over 30 years of experience in the manufacturing sector, he has been instrumental in developing and launching several award-winning products, while cultivating positive and collaborative cultures that align well with our approach at Douglas Dynamics. His broad expertise and new perspectives will be invaluable as we explore our significant opportunities in the years ahead.”
Incoming President of Work Truck Attachments, Chris Bernauer, noted, “I am excited to be joining an organization with the incomparable pedigree and reputation of Douglas Dynamics. The company’s commitment to quality, innovation, and continuous improvement is second to none, and I look forward to collaborating with the talented commercial snow and ice control team to build on its remarkable legacy and create a strong future for the business.”
Based in Milwaukee and reporting to Chief Operating Officer Mark Van Genderen, Bernauer will manage all facets of Work Truck Attachments, including strategy, operations, and new product development. This appointment underscores the company’s commitment to advancing its market-leading position, achieving operational excellence, and delivering sustainable, profitable performance.
Bernauer takes over the President of Work Truck Attachments role from Mark Van Genderen, who is now focusing on his responsibilities as Chief Operating Officer of Douglas Dynamics. Serving in that role since September 2024, Van Genderen will continue to oversee both of the company’s reporting segments, while working closely with Chairman and Interim President & CEO, Jim Janik, and EVP and CFO, Sarah Lauber, to set the company’s strategic direction.