German Machine Tools of America taps new president/CEO

(From left) Walter Friedrich and Michael Rose.

German Machine Tools of America (GMTA) has announced that Michael Rose has been named the new president and CEO. Rose succeeds Walter Friedrich, who announced he was stepping down after 32 years.

Friedrich was one of the first three employees when GMTA (American Wera at the time) was formed in 1991. He started his career at Pittler Maschinenfabrik where he advanced from toolmaker to NC programmer, eventually transferring to Chester, Connecticut in 1984 to support the North American operations of the company. He later joined Liebherr in 1986, where he was project manager within the automation group.

On January 30, 2023, Friedrich spoke with the company’s board of directors and decided to step down. The change was effective April 1, 2023.

Rose brings twenty-plus years of machine tool experience to the new post, having been most recently employed as the Director of Sales for a leading German machine tool builder. Friedrich is confident that Rose is fully prepared to handle all his new responsibilities.

“Michael’s experience within the Automotive sector as a key account manager and most recently as director of sales, has prepared him well for his future responsibilities within GMTA," said Friedrich. "I’m sure he will continue the company’s expansion.”

Rose is grateful for this opportunity, adding, “My objective is to continue the tradition of excellence established by Mr. Friedrich, while at the same time creating additional growth opportunities for the organization.”