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Perkins Engines Company announces leadership changes

David Nicoll named product manager of large engine division; Jason Kern joins as marketing and channel development director

Perkins Engines Company announces leadership changes

Perkins Engines Company, a subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc, is pleased to announce David Nicoll has joined the Industrial Large Engine department as product manager. Beginning November 1, 2019, he will lead global strategy, product introductions, and lifecycle management for Industrial 9.3 to 18 litre engines at the Mossville facility in Illinois, U.S. 

In David’s decades-long tenure at Caterpillar, which acquired Perkins in 1998, he has gained experience across a wide variety of roles in distribution, machine and engine businesses.   

“It’s clear David’s passion lies in seeing our customers thrive,” said Perkins Vice President of global sales, marketing, service and parts Jaz Gill. “His customer-focused approach is key to his—and our company’s—success. I’m looking forward to seeing the impact that his distinctive outlook will bring to the large engine division and Perkins as a whole.” 

Before beginning his career at Caterpillar, David earned his bachelor’s degree in business from Bradley University, and went on to earn his MBA from the University of Cambridge Judge Business school. He also serves as a leader with several professional organisations such as the Association of Equipment Manufacturers Components Committee. 

Succeeding David will be Jason Kern, fulfilling the role of marketing and channel development director, also effective November 1, 2019. In this role, Jason will be responsible for execution of global marketing and rental strategies and leading the Perkins Distributor Excellence programme. 

In his lifelong career with Caterpillar, Jason has held multiple titles of increasing importance including marketing supervisor in Aurora, Illinois, commercial manager in Grenoble, France, Americas regional product manager, and most recently, large HEX global growth manager.  

“Jason brings a unique set of talent and skills to Perkins,” said Jaz. “The positions he’s held within the business have earned him global recognition both in and outside of the organisation, and his innovative spirit and passion will be an excellent fit for his new leadership role.”

As a graduate of Purdue University with a degree in Electrical Engineering, Jason began his Caterpillar career on the marketing training programme. Since then, Jason has earned his M.B.A. from Bradley University.  

Jason will be located at the Seguin facility in Texas, U.S.