WINN, Mich. — Morbark announces the appointment of David Herr as chief executive officeer. In addition to being an active member of the current Morbark Board, he brings extensive knowledge from experience with both products and services companies. He replaces Dan Ruskin, who resigned due to health issues.

“The board is thankful for Dan’s leadership over the past six months as the company has transitioned to the next phase in its development,” says Ray Whiteman, chairman of the board. “Our thoughts are with Dan and his family, and we wish him a speedy recovery.”

“Morbark is fortunate to have a strong and deep leadership team and board, and we are pleased that David Herr has agreed to step into the CEO role,” Whiteman added. “We have known Dave for many years and have been impressed by his track record of building high-performing leadership teams that drive growth while respecting core values. The board is excited about the company’s strategic direction and commitment to supporting its current and growing customer base, partners and employees.”

Ruskin says, “It has been an enormous privilege to have led Morbark during this period of important change and growth. I remain confident that Dave and the team will continue to execute Morbark’s strategy and that the Company will enjoy continued success in the future.”

Herr has more than 30 years of relevant experience in operations, supply chain management and executive management with major companies, including Navistar, GE Aircraft Engines and BAE Systems. He has diverse business experience in the areas of heavy-duty truck manufacturing, commercial avionics, commercial ship repair, munitions production, and information and intelligence analysis. In his most recent role as executive vice president at BAE Systems, he was responsible for one of the largest government service sectors in the U.S. with over 19,000 employees. He also currently serves as a Board Member for MHI Holdings, a ship repair contractor for the U.S. Navy.

He earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from St. Francis College, in Fort Wayne, Ind., and a master's of business administration degree from Northern Kentucky University.