Stihl Inc. announced that Chris Keffer, senior vice president of sales and marketing, has been promoted to president and CEO. He will assume this position Aug. 4. Keffer succeeds Terry Horan, who has been appointed to the Stihl board of directors.

“The U.S.A. is by far our most important market worldwide,” says Michael Traub, chairman of the Stihl executive board. “These appointments provide stability and continuity, which are critical to our long-term strategic and operational success. Chris has quickly established himself as an innovator and leader and has a keen understanding of our market and our customers. His experience and expertise will enable the company to lead in all markets in which we choose to compete.”

Keffer adds, “Stihl has always had a long-term strategic outlook. So while our market may be facing short-term challenges, we see tremendous opportunity in our future. We have the people, products, programs and partners to grow our position as the leading authority in the gas and battery outdoor power equipment markets.”

Stihl Inc. is the largest subsidiary in the Stihl Group, supplying not only the majority of products sold in the U.S. but also exporting to more than 100 markets worldwide.

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