Mike Barker

Swisslog - United States

Warehouse automation and software provider Swisslog has announced the appointment of Mike Barker to the position of CEO and president of Swisslog Americas.

In this role, Barker will be responsible for driving the company’s growth in North and South America, as well as helping develop strategies for the integration of artificial intelligence into Swisslog’s robotics and software solutions.

Swisslog CEO Jens Schmale explains Barker is replacing outgoing president and CEO Sean Wallingford.

“I am confident that Mike is the right person to further accelerate the company’s success in the Americas region,” Schmale continues. “His leadership, insight and commitment to the customer is exactly what is needed to maintain the company’s forward progress. I’m excited to see where his leadership takes Swisslog.”

Barker has more than 34 years’ experience in warehouse automation, logistics and software, coming back to Swisslog after serving as VP of consumer goods at Swisslog in 2021.

Faruk Ghankar

Newgentech Material Handling India - India

Material handling equipment maker Newgentech Material Handling India has named Faruk Ghankar as its new vice president.

Ghankar has previously worked with Josts engineering company since 1995, rising through the ranks to become general manager of business development in 2019.

“With his extensive industry experience and visionary leadership, we are confident that he will play a pivotal role in steering Newgentech towards greater innovation, growth, and excellence,” the company states.

John Hicks

Thompson Lift Truck - United States

Alabama-headquartered Thompson Lift Truck has welcomed John Hicks to the role of sales representative for the Dothan (Alabama) and Panama City (Florida) areas.

Hicks, who first worked with Thompson for more than three decades from 1983 - starting when he was just 19 - before taking other materials handling sales and finance roles, returned to the company in June.

“John Hicks is a seasoned expert in the industry, and Thompson Lift Truck is pleased to have him on board,” the company states in a LinkedIn post. 

Hicks says he is grateful for the opportunity to return to his roots.

“Nothing like going home,” he continues. “From shipping clerk, to mechanic to rental coordinator to sales rep to sales manager and finally to warehouse products specialist, my first 32 years with Thompson was the beginning and now I’m fortunate to pick it back up and finish the book.”