Wilmar Names Ken Hartman CEO

Wilmar, supplier, distributor and category manager of tools and equipment for the automotive aftermarket, has named Ken Hartman as its new chief executive officer, the company and backing private equity firm Rainier announced.

Prior to joining Wilmar, Hartman served as vice president & general manager of ESAB, a producer of welding and cutting equipment and consumables. Before ESAB, Hartman held the title of president of Mac Tools at Stanley Black & Decker, vice president of aftermarket at Thermo King, and key leadership positions at Chief Automotive Technologies and Snap-On Tools.

“I discovered a passion for the industry at an early age, which has driven me through my career and led me to Wilmar,” said Hartman. “The Cantalini family has created a world-class business with an incredible product line, deep customer relationships, and powerful opportunities for market and geographic expansion. Not only am I excited to work alongside the incredible team at Wilmar, but also to work with Rainier as our partner to execute on our growth strategy.”

“Ken is a proven leader in the tool and equipment space, and his transformational leadership experience will be instrumental in identifying key growth opportunities while maintaining the culture and customer focus that makes Wilmar special,” said Rainier’s Director of Portfolio Operations, Dave Shephard. “We are thrilled to welcome him aboard and continue to partner with Wilmar as we take exciting steps into the new year.”