Leadership Transition Builds on FLANDERS’ Operational Foundation and Positions Company for Next Phase of Growth
EVANSVILLE, Ind. — August 28, 2026 — FLANDERS, a global provider of electric rotating machines and innovative technology solutions for the mining and heavy industrial markets and a portfolio company of Center Rock Capital Partners, LP (“Center Rock”), today announced the next evolution of its leadership structure. Kim Weninger will transition from her day-to-day responsibilities as Chief Executive Officer to the Chairman of the FLANDERS Board of Directors, as well as an executive advisor for Center Rock’s operating group, where she will continue to play an active role in the company’s long-term strategy, strategic initiatives, and key customer partnerships in FLANDERS technology portfolio. OT Benson has been appointed Chief Executive Officer and will assume responsibility for the day-to-day leadership of FLANDERS.
Weninger joined FLANDERS during an important period in the company’s evolution, with a focus on strengthening its operational foundation and positioning the organization for future growth. During her tenure as CEO, FLANDERS made meaningful progress in operational performance, customer service and responsiveness, and organizational capabilities.
“I am incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished and believe this is the right time for this transition,” said Weninger. “I have tremendous confidence in the FLANDERS team and am excited to continue supporting the company from the Board. This role will allow me to focus my time on several of the strategic opportunities and customer partnerships in FLANDERS technology business that are important to our future, while OT and our leadership team continue driving the day-to-day execution of the business.”
Benson brings more than 25 years of global manufacturing and business leadership experience, with a proven track record of improving operational performance, strengthening customer relationships, and growing complex industrial businesses. Most recently, he served as Americas Regional President for Joyson Safety Systems, where he led a $1.5 billion business with more than 14,000 employees across North and South America and drove significant improvements in profitability, customer delivery, quality, and operational performance.
Prior to Joyson, Benson held senior leadership positions with Nexteer Automotive and Nidec Motor Corporation, with responsibilities spanning regional operations, global sales and marketing, supply chain, and manufacturing. His career includes leadership experience across the United States, China, Poland, Brazil, Mexico, and other global markets.
Center Rock Partner Terry Theodore commented,
“Kim has played an important role in strengthening FLANDERS and positioning the company for its next phase of growth. We are excited that she will continue bringing her experience and relationships to FLANDERS as a member of the Board. We are equally excited to welcome OT to the FLANDERS team. His global manufacturing experience, strong operational background, and focus on people and customers make him a great fit to lead the day-to-day business. We believe this leadership structure positions FLANDERS well to build on the progress already made.”
As CEO, Benson will focus on strengthening execution, deepening customer relationships, and driving growth across FLANDERS’ motor repair and field service businesses and its expanding portfolio of mining technologies, including ARDVARC® autonomous drilling and FLANDERS’ hybrid haul truck technologies.
Benson commented,
“FLANDERS has a strong reputation built on technical expertise, long-standing customer relationships, and talented people. I’m excited to build on those strengths by staying close to our customers, strengthening execution, and driving profitable growth across our core businesses and technology portfolio. I look forward to working with Kim, our Board, and the FLANDERS team to capture the significant opportunities ahead.”
About FLANDERS
FLANDERS is a global provider of industrial electrical and automation solutions, headquartered in Evansville, Indiana. Since 1947, the company has specialized in electric rotating machines, advanced automation technologies, and lifecycle services for heavy industry. FLANDERS serves customers across mining, mills, oil and gas, power generation, marine, and other industrial markets.
About Center Rock Capital Partners
Center Rock is a Midwest-based private equity firm focused on building leading industrial companies in the lower middle market. Center Rock seeks industrial manufacturing, industrial services, and industrial distribution companies headquarter in North America, often with multi-national operations and locations that serve both domestic and global markets.
With substantial expertise working constructively with management teams to drive both operational and strategic improvement, Center Rock’s investment professionals have the flexibility and tools to invest in a broad array of transactions and build value in lower middle market industrial companies.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Flanders Electric Motors Service, LLC
+1-812-867-7421
