ROCHESTER, N.Y.—Horizon Solutions LLC, has announced that John Kerkhove, current Vice President of Global Sales at Eaton Crouse-Hinds, has been named President and CEO, effective January 3, 2018. Mike Herrmann, current President and CEO, will continue as the Chief Financial Officer after the transition. In addition, Karen Baker, Executive Vice President of Sales Operations, Products, and Services Management, was promoted to Chief Operating Officer effective December 5, 2017. Today’s leadership announcements are the result of a succession plan overseen by the Horizon Solutions Board of Directors since 2013.
“John is exceptionally well qualified to lead the Company. For nearly three decades, John has built an impressive track record of strategic, operational, and business development accomplishments. He has proven to be a successful and trusted leader and brings a respected reputation for developing people and inspiring teams,” said Mike Herrmann, President and CEO. “John shares our values and our focus on innovation and he places the same strong emphasis as we do on the customer experience. The Board unanimously agreed that John’s leadership experience, coupled with his strategic thinking and proven ability to deliver results, make him the right person to help execute Horizon Solutions’ strategic priorities and drive sustainable growth. John encompasses everything we stand for and I could not be more pleased about his appointment to this critical role,” said Herrmann.
Kerkhove began his career in 1986 as Sales Engineer at Square D and subsequently served in sales and marketing positions across the company. Transitioning to Eaton Crouse-Hinds in 2005, he was promoted to Vice President of Sales North America, in 2011, and to Vice President of Global Sales, in 2015. Kerkhove earned a bachelor’s degree in Engineering from Purdue University.
“I have long admired Horizon Solutions and I am profoundly honored to join their team and be part of their continued success. I look forward to working with the staff, many who have been with the company for years. And I am excited for the future and the opportunity that lies ahead of us,” said John Kerkhove.