The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) recently announced its 2014-2015 officers and board of directors.

Officers for the 2014-2015 year include: OPEI Chairman Paul Mullet, president, Excel Industries; OPEI Vice Chair Lee Sowell, president, outdoor products at Techtronic Industries, N.A. Inc.; and OPEI Secretary/Treasurer Tim Merrett, vice president of A & T Global Platform and Turf & Utility, Deere & Co. Immediate past chair is Todd Teske, chairman, president and CEO at Briggs & Stratton Corp.

“OPEI is entering a new era of growth and engagement because of the ground work laid for many years by our board of directors,” says Kris Kiser, president and CEO of OPEI. “As the voice of outdoor power equipment, utility vehicle and small engine manufacturers, we are doing more to support manufacturers, advocate on their behalf, educate dealers and share safety standards and best practices within the industry and with consumers.”

“A hundred million plus consumers use our products and our industry is continuing to expand and grow,” says OPEI Chairman, Paul Mullet. “OPEI is championing the highest standards of safety and excellence during this phase of growth and innovation.”

Continuing their service on the OPEI Board are: Daniel T. Ariens, president and CEO, Ariens Co.; Earl Bennett, vice president and general counsel, N/A and L/A — Husqvarna Professional Products; Steven M. Bly, executive vice president, Echo Inc.; Edward B. Cohen, vice president, government & industry relations, American Honda Motor Co. Inc.; Tom Cromwell, president, Kohler Engines, Kohler Company; John Cunningham, president, Consumer Products Group, Stanley Black & Decker; Marc  J. Dufour, president & CEO, Club Car LLC; Peter Hampton, president — Active Exhaust Corp.; Jean Hlay, president and chief operating officer, MTD Products Inc.; and Michael J. Hoffman, chairman & CEO, the Toro Co.

About OPEI
The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) is an international trade association representing more than 100 small engine, utility vehicle and outdoor power equipment manufacturers and suppliers worldwide. OPEI is a recognized Standards Development Organization for the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and active internationally through the International Standards Organization (ISO) in the development of safety and performance standards. For more information, visit www.OPEI.org.