Columbus McKinnon Corporation (NASDAQ: CMCO), a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of material handling products, announced a newly created Global Services Group and the expansion of roles for certain global leaders.  Gene Buer will now serve as Vice President, Global Services and Vertical Markets, while Kurt Wozniak will assume the role of Vice President, Americas.  In addition, Benjamin AuYeung has been appointed Managing Director for Columbus McKinnon Asia-Pacific replacing Eric Woon.  Mr. Woon, who served as Vice President – Asia-Pacific the past four years, planned his retirement for March 2014.

Timothy T. Tevens, President and Chief Executive Officer, commented, “The development of our leadership team is an important component of our growth strategy.  Gene’s new role as the leader of the newly formed Global Services Group will focus on developing key customer relationships much more deeply.  Certain key customers are demanding a more holistic and global approach for their lifting needs and can benefit from more cohesive offerings of our products, services and solutions.  Also, this position will focus additional attention on our vertical market strategy.  In addition, Kurt and Ben will expand their roles in these important regions of the world, the Americas and Asia.  Both are critically important for the future of our Company.”

Mr. Buer joined Columbus McKinnon in 2005 as President of the Company’s Crane Equipment and Service division and most recently served as Vice President Hoist & Rigging Products -North America and Global Vertical Markets.  Mr. Wozniak joined the Company in 1999 and has held a variety of positions, most recently as Vice President, Latin America.  As Vice President, Americas, his leadership responsibilities will expand to include the North America Hoist & Rigging business in addition to the responsibilities previously held as Vice President, Latin America.

Mr. AuYeung joined Columbus McKinnon in 2012 to manage the Company’s China Operations.  As Managing Director for Columbus McKinnon Asia-Pacific, he will assume Eric Woon’s previous responsibilities for the Asia Pacific business.

Mr. Tevens added, “Eric was instrumental in the development of our Asia-Pacific business including the expansion of our sales team in China.  We wish him all the best in his retirement and look forward to this management team developing and expanding our global business.”