MADISON, Ind. — Grote Industries has announced two new executive appointments this week.
Mark Blackford will be stepping into the role of national fleet manager. Blackford has been working with Grote for nearly 20 years and has experience in product development, aftermarket sales management and national account management.
The fleet market is a key market for Grote. In his new post, Blackford will be responsible for managing all fleet activities for both the OEM and aftermarket sales divisions. He will coordinate specifications at the OEMs and drive the national aftermarket programming for the heavy-duty aftermarket division.
John Grote, vice president, sales and marketing, said that Blackford has consistently demonstrated skills that make him well-suited for his new position.
“Mark is the perfect Grote candidate for this highly important job,” Grote said. “His relationship with the fleets and distributors is second to none. He has extensive experience in training and technical problem solving, and has a proven track record of managing results to exceed expectations.”
In addition, Kent Bode will be joining the aftermarket sales department in two key roles: manager of the south central aftermarket region and national account manager for the heavy-duty division.
Bode has been with Grote for almost 15 years contributing in various areas, including engineering, aftermarket product development and, most recently, OEM sales.
Matt Forner, director of aftermarket sales, said that Bode’s move to the aftermarket sales department will be a great benefit for Grote’s business.
“Kent’s abilities to execute and produce results are outstanding. Combined with his years of Grote aftermarket product development experience, our customers will receive top, expert support in all areas of their lighting business,” Forner said.
In his new regional position, Bode will be managing the day-to-day activities of five heavy-duty direct field sales managers in 12 southeastern states, plus two traditional agencies on the automotive side. As national account manager in the heavy-duty division, Bode will manage activities and program rollouts for Grote’s various aftermarket heavy-duty groups.
