Caterpillar names new CEO, makes executive appointments
Written by Mischa Wanek-Libman, editor
Left, Jim Umpleby, right, Billy Ainsworth.
Jim Umpleby will take the helm of Caterpillar Inc. Jan. 1, 2017 and three newly appointed executives will support him.
The company’s Board of Directors has appointed current Construction Industries Group President Tom Pellette to group president of Energy & Transportation, the position previously held by Umpleby.
“To this role, Tom brings broad and global experience serving customers in the oil and gas and power generation markets,” Umpleby said.
Bob De Lange will replace Pellette as group president of Construction Industries. De Lange is currently vice president of the Excavation Division.
“During Bob’s 23-year career at Caterpillar, he has consistently demonstrated strong leadership and results across a range of marketing, product management and manufacturing positions. Bob also brings a diverse perspective to our Executive Office, having started his career with Caterpillar in his native Belgium before serving in multiple marketing and product manager roles across Europe and in the United States as he progressed to positions with increasing levels of responsibility,” Umpleby said.
Additionally, the board has appointed Billy Ainsworth, senior vice president and strategic advisor to the Caterpillar Executive Office. In addition to his new responsibilities, Ainsworth will continue to have responsibility for Caterpillar’s Rail Division.
“Billy joined Caterpillar 10 years ago when we acquired Progress Rail Services, the company he founded in 1983 and built from the ground up. He brings proven entrepreneurial skills and an unyielding focus on serving customers to his new role. Billy will act as an advisor to Caterpillar’s Executive Office as we evaluate strategic growth opportunities,” Umpleby said. “In addition to these new responsibilities, Billy will continue to have responsibility for our Rail Division, which will continue to be part of Energy & Transportation.”
The above changes are effective January 1, 2017.
