CINCINNATI, OHIO – August 19, 2009 – OPW Fueling Components President, David Crouse, announced today the appointment of Fernando Whitaker to the newly created position of Managing Director – Latin America. Mr. Whitaker assumed this position on August 3, 2009.
Fernando joined OPW in October 2006 as Managing Director, OPW Brazil. Earlier this year he assumed management responsibilities for the joint operation of two Dover companies, OPW Fueling Components and OPW Fluid Transfer Group in Brazil.
“This change helps to better align our resources within this mission-critical region,” stated OPW President, David Crouse. “Fernando has demonstrated exceptional management skills and stellar business acumen in our business and the region. His appointment demonstrates our commitment to better meeting the needs and expectations of our customers in Latin America and to advancing OPW’s global strategic growth initiatives.”
In this position, Mr. Whitaker’s responsibilities have been expanded to include all Latin America markets. He will be based out of the company’s Itatiba, Brazil facility and will report directly to Mr. Crouse.
Luis Barriga, OPW’s Regional Sales Director for Latin America, will be responsible for sales of all OPW products made in the U.S. as well those made in Brazil. His territory will include all Latin America markets with the exception of sales within Brazil. Mr. Barriga will report directly to Mr. Whitaker.
Fernando holds a Bachelor of Mechanical-Industrial Engineering Degree from the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil, and an Executive Masters of Business Administration from the Business School S. Paulo, Brazil. Mr. Whitaker’s 25-year business career has included positions as the Director of Latin America for a Business Unit of Emerson Electric, Technical Assistance Manager for GE-Dako Appliances; Commercial Manager for FAM; Export Sales Manager for Tecumseh Products; and Logistics and Production Planning Manager for Sandoz-Novartis.
Mr. Crouse added, “I am confident Fernando’s appointment will provide significant benefits to our customers throughout Latin America, as well as enhance our focus and resources around New Product Development and better service to our customers and channel partners in the region.”
For additional information, please contact Kelly Klodell via email at kelly.klodell@opwglobal.com or by phone at 1-513-870-3134.
OPW is the global leader in dispensing products, environmental systems, secondarily contained fuel delivery systems, fuel management systems and clean energy fueling products, including dispensing nozzles for vapor recovery, gasoline, diesel, LPG, Hydrogen and CNG; swivels, breakaways, valves and fittings; underground and above ground storage tank equipment, spill containers, overfill prevention devices, secondary containment sumps and flexible piping; tank gauging equipment and automated fuel management systems. OPW is part of the Fluid Management Segment of Dover Corporation (NYSE: DOV).