Rob Ott

East Penn Manufacturing - United States

East Penn Manufacturing has promoted Rob Ott to the roles of executive vice president and chief commercial officer, effective from September 29.

In his new position, Ott will oversee all the industrial and transportation sales segments including motive power and reserve power, original equipment and aftermarket private and proprietary brands.

Ott started with East Penn in 1996 as a sales trainee for Northern Virginia. His most recent role has been as senior vice president of automative sales.

He will continue to report directly to Pete Stanislawczyk, CEO.

Phil Roe

Logistics UK - United Kingdom

Phil Roe, president of industry body Logistics UK, has received the President of the Year Award at the 2025 Memcom Awards, which recognise excellence across strategy, leadership, engagement and achievement. 

Roe was named president of Logistics UK in April 2022 after five years as a non-executive director and has been pivotal in introducing the organisation’s new strategic vision. He has also taken a leading role in Logistics UK’s thought-leadership positioning.

In March, his tenure was extended by two more years.

Kevin Green, acting chief executive at Logistics UK, says: “Phil leads from the front and by example and inspires everyone he encounters to perform at the highest level”.

“Phil’s passion for logistics and commitment to excellence shine through in everything he does. We couldn’t be prouder that the wider sector now knows about his passion for our industry – this award is very well deserved.” 

Paul Fiala

Big Joe Forklifts - United States

Big Joe Forklifts has appointed Paul Fiala to the role of director of dealer development East Coast where he will oversee national sales initiatives and contribute to the company’s strategic direction.

Fiala has more than 30 years’ experience in the materials handling industry, most recently leading counterbalance product sales across the East and Gulf Coast regions for Kalmar for the last seven years. 

He has also worked with Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas and the Raymond Corporation.

Jason Dunigan, VP of sales at Big Joe Forklifts, says of the appointment: “Paul’s leadership and hands-on approach to sales make him a perfect fit for Big Joe Forklifts”.

“His experience at Kalmar and other top-tier companies will be invaluable as we continue to expand our market presence and deliver innovative solutions to our customers,” Dunigan adds.