The Reading Group, LLC, a leading provider of high quality vocational truck equipment, is pleased to announce several key additions to its executive team.  These additions bolster an already strengthened management team, implementing and further creating The Reading Group’s growth strategy.

Ken Spear, Vice President of Engineering

Ken Spear joined The Reading Group in October 2012.  In the position of VP of Engineering, Ken is responsible for driving new product development, evaluating the existing product portfolio and implementing robust “Voice of The Customer” and “Stage Gate” processes.  Ken previously held senior engineering management and executive leadership positions at HARDI North America, Bush Hog LLC, Dixon Industries and Ames True Temper.  With numerous patents to his credit, Ken brings a strong focus to new product development as well as a focused, disciplined approach to engineering activities.

Bob Besse, Vice President of Sales & Marketing

Bob Besse joined The Reading Group in December 2012.  In this role, Bob is responsible for leading the company’s go-to-market approach.  From fostering growth through a renewed commitment to the company’s strong distributor network, to expansion of the resources committed to Fleet and Alt/Fuel services, Bob and his teams are leading efforts to continue expansion of The Reading Group’s customer and geographic reach.  Bob has previously held senior sales and marketing management positions at companies including Supreme Corporation, Grumman Olson, and Dover – Chief Automotive Systems. 

Susan Mitchell, Director, Human Resources

Susan Mitchell joined The Reading Group in November 2012.  In this position, Susan is responsible for cultivating the employee talent level, recruiting, and hiring for new positions as the company continues to grow.  Susan brings 20+ years of HR experience in heavy manufacturing, alternative energy and distribution environments at companies including Cambridge Lee Industries, Allied Wire and Cable, and International Battery Inc.  Susan has been recognized nationally with awards for Operational Excellence in HR, and has earned achievement awards from the State of PA in Training, Compliance and Audits.

“We’re honored to have these talented individuals join our dynamic and growing team,” says Brian Nadel, CEO of The Reading Group.  “Getting the right people into the right position has been paramount in the company’s successful transformation and these new hires complement the existing talent.  Together, they create a team capable of driving our aggressive growth strategy.”

Since joining The Reading Group as CEO in December 2011, Brian Nadel has realigned the company resources to better meet the needs of customers and partners.   As a result, the company is considerably more productive, more focused and more committed to maintaining it’s position as the market leader.

“This is just the latest in a series of strategic decisions we have made to position the company for growth,” said Nadel.  “These new additions will contribute significantly to the continued improvement of our now lean, productive, cohesive corporate culture.”