New LiuGong vice president for mining machines

269 LiuGong Machinery has appointed a new vice president to cover the mining machine segment. Kris Kulkarni now works at LiuGong North America as vice president, Global Mining.

Kulkarni began his professional career at Caterpillar in 1996 in structures and steadily progressed in engineering roles across diverse mining products including large wheel loaders, mining trucks, surface drills, and hydraulic shovels. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the Indian Institute of Technology, a master’s from the University of Ottawa, and a PhD from Northwestern University.

LiuGong has an emerging portfolio of mining products, including trucks, large tonnage wheel loaders, excavators and bulldozers. Kris is well qualified to help lead the transformation of this mining product line to world-class levels.

On the appointment, LiuGong vice president of strategy & aftersales and chairman of LiuGong North America, Kevin Thieneman, said “Kris’ extensive background and knowledge of the mining industry brings an exciting new dynamic to our company.”

“I am excited to have the opportunity to join an organisation so focused on customers and employees,” stated Kulkarni. “LiuGong has a rich 60-year history, and an inspiring vision for its future. I look forward to helping write the next chapter as we broaden the portfolio.”