Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Gary Appel is an accomplished Chief Operating Officer with extensive experience in supply chain management, operations, and strategic leadership. He has a proven track record of driving operational excellence and implementing innovative solutions to improve efficiency and profitability across various industries.
Current Role
As the Chief Operating Officer at Sterno, Gary is responsible for overseeing the company's day-to-day operations, including production, logistics, and quality control. He has been instrumental in streamlining the company's supply chain, implementing advanced data analytics to optimize decision-making, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
Career Progression
Prior to his current role, Gary held several senior leadership positions in the consumer products industry. He served as the Chief Operating Officer at Bradshaw International, where he led the company's global expansion and successfully integrated a major acquisition. Before that, he was the Vice President of Supply Chain at Newell Brands, where he played a pivotal role in enhancing the company's supply chain resilience and driving cost savings.
Gary's career path also includes roles as the Vice President of Operations at TTI Floor Care North America and the Vice President of Global Operations and Supply Chain at Newell Rubbermaid. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to optimize operations, drive innovation, and deliver measurable results.
Academic Background
Gary holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He has also completed executive leadership programs at prestigious institutions, further honing his strategic and management skills.
Areas of Expertise
- Supply chain optimization and logistics management
- Operations management and process improvement
- Data-driven decision-making and performance monitoring
- Cross-functional collaboration and change management
- Strategic planning and execution
Professional Impact
Under Gary's leadership, the companies he has worked for have experienced significant improvements in operational efficiency, cost savings, and market competitiveness. He has spearheaded the implementation of advanced technologies, such as predictive analytics and automation, to enhance supply chain visibility and responsiveness.
Gary's industry contributions extend beyond his direct roles, as he has actively participated in industry associations and thought leadership initiatives. He is recognized as a subject matter expert in his field, frequently speaking at conferences and contributing to industry publications.
Conclusion
With his extensive experience, strategic mindset, and proven track record of success, Gary Appel is a highly versatile and valuable asset to any organization. As he continues to drive operational excellence and champion innovative solutions, he is well-positioned to make a lasting impact on the companies and industries he serves.