The board of directors of Gardner Denver, Inc. have announced that Barry L. Pennypacker has resigned as president, chief executive officer and director. Michael M. Larsen, vice president and chief financial officer, has been named interim CEO, effective immediately. Diane Schumacher, who served in a variety of senior management and legal roles during her career with Cooper Industries, will continue to serve as board chairperson and will actively assist Mr. Larsen during the transition period.
Mr. Larsen oversees all company financial matters, including mergers and acquisitions, and will retain his CFO responsibilities during the interim period. He has served as vice president and chief financial officer since 2010. Under Larsen's leadership as CFO, the company delivered record financial results in 2011. Gardner Denver expects second quarter 2012 results to be in line with previously stated guidance.
"We thank Barry for his service to the company and wish him well in his new endeavors," said Diane Schumacher.
"I am proud of the progress and results we achieved in my years with the company, which is well positioned for a strong future. Gardner Denver has a talented leadership team supported by a dedicated and customer-focused workforce. I wish them only the best," said Barry L. Pennypacker.
"It's an honor to be selected for this role and I accept with the clear goal of continuing to move the company forward by executing Gardner Denver's lean strategy for profitable growth," said Michael M. Larsen, interim chief executive officer and chief financial officer.
Prior to joining Gardner Denver, Larsen served as chief financial officer for General Electric Water & Process Technologies, a global organization with revenues of approximately $2 billion and 7,500 employees. His previous experience includes more than 15 years with General Electric Company, where he served in a variety of financial leadership roles.
The nominating and corporate governance committee of the board of directors will oversee the search for the next CEO.
