Elkhart, Ind.-based THOR Industries has announced the creation of a new executive leadership team position. Josef Hjelmaker has joined the company in the new role of chief innovation officer, which the company said will play a critical part in the future success of the organization by optimizing and evolving the global product portfolio, leading operational technologies and advancements and championing digital strategies across the THOR family of operating companies.
Hjelmaker will report directly to Bob Martin, THOR president and CEO. Hjelmaker’s background is in automotive and consumer products, and includes numerous leadership roles at Delphi Electronics & Safety, focused on industry-leading product development in the safe, green and connected space. Most recently, Hjelmaker led the global cooking product development organization at Whirlpool Corporation where he focused extensively on the development of smart technologies designed to enhance the consumer experience.
“Josef has an impressive track record of bringing innovative consumer-centric product solutions to the market, which is a key component to our long-term strategy,” said Martin. “Welcoming Josef to our leadership team is a monumental step toward THOR’s goal of continuing to lead the industry in innovation for years to come. His leadership and innovation mindset, combined with his ability to partner to advance the consumer experience, aligns perfectly with our global growth strategies.”
“It is an honor to join the THOR team,” Hjelmaker added. “I am extremely excited to be part of a team with exceptional focus on the consumer experience and drive for innovative solutions. Together with the talented THOR team and our valued partners, I am eager to harness the many developing technologies in our space in a way that maximizes the user experience for owners of THOR products as we fulfill our transformative purpose of connecting people with nature and each other.”
Hjelmaker is joining the THOR executive leadership team immediately and will be located in the THOR corporate headquarters in Elkhart.
