JOHN HINZ APPOINTED PRESIDENT OF KTM NORTH AMERICA

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Jon-Erik Burleson (left) and John Hinz (right). Note that the outgoing President is going to be wearing his “Casual Friday” clothes every day, while the incoming President is a suit-and-tie man now.

John Hinz will become the new President of KTM North American on January 1, 2017. As KTM North America President, Hinz will assume responsibility for KTM, Husqvarna and WP in the United States and Canada. Current KTM North America President Jon-Erik Burleson will step back and assume the role as Brand Ambassador for Husqvarna Motorcycles beginning February 1, 2017.

As a lifelong motorcyclist, with nearly 20 years of industry experience, 10 of which have been spent with KTM, John Hinz has played an instrumental role in the company’s success. He has held position in Product Marketing, Research & Development, KTM’s RC8 Superbike Racing program, Product Development and most recently as Managing Director of KTM.

John Hinz racing at REM Glen Helen. Do you think the President of Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki or Kawasaki does this?

Jon-Erik Burleson said about his new role, “I have arrived at a point in my career in which I have decided to embark on new personal challenges. My passion for both the company and individual brands remains strong and true, as well as my personal investment in continuing industry initiatives to support the sport of motorcycling, which tie back to the company’s foundation of success and core of the brands. I’m looking forward to assuming the role of Brand Ambassador with Husqvarna, which allows me to remain involved with a brand that is so near and dear to my heart and stay connected within the motorcycle industry. I have worked closely with John for many years now and I am looking forward to seeing the continued growth and success of the company.”

Hubert Trunkenpolz, CSO of KTM said,  “I am excited for John Hinz to transition into the position of President so he can continue the implementation of the successful business strategy that the KTM North America group has developed with its executive management team. On behalf of the entire KTM AG Board of Directors, we would like to thank Jon-Erik for his over 20 years of hard work and dedication to the company.”