David L. Thomas Named Wenger Corporation’s President & CEO

Wenger Corporation formally announced that David (Dave) L. Thomas has accepted the position of President & CEO, replacing Christopher (Chris) Simpson who will retire on February 24, 2023.  

Over the last 11 years, Chris Simpson has led Wenger Corporation with a steady hand and with personal and professional integrity while adhering to organization’s core values. During this time, Wenger Corporation has launched several new products and services as well as endured the COVID pandemic and global supply chain challenges.  Wenger Corporation has been fortunate to have had Simpson lead the business during these years.

Chris has been an active leader in the Owatonna Community with the Owatonna Chamber of Commerce Board, Owatonna Forward Committee, and the United Way of Steele County.

Chris has worked closely with the Wenger Corporation Board of Directors to accomplish a smooth succession process and Wenger is pleased to announce Dave Thomas as the next President & CEO of Wenger Corporation.

Dave Thomas joins Wenger Corporation with over 25 years of experience in global manufacturing companies. His most recent role was as President and CEO of SJE based in Detroit Lakes, MN, and he had held that position for over 10 years. His experience prior to SJE includes US and Europe-based executive, general management, and marketing roles with several global enterprises in public, private and private equity-backed environments. 

“As a musician, I connect personally with the products and services Wenger Corporation provides.  I look forward to working with the Wenger Corporation Leadership team and the Board of Directors as the President and CEO,” Dave said.

Dave earned his B.S. in Astrophysics from University of Minnesota, an M.B.A. in Marketing from the University of St. Thomas, and an M.S. in Finance from Fairfield University. 

About Wenger Corporation

Wenger Corporation provides innovative, high-quality products and solutions for music and theatre education, performing arts venues and athletic programs.  Our products include the Wenger, J.R. Clancy and GearBoss brands of equipment.  Products include theatrical rigging systems, acoustical shells and treatment, acoustical doors, and sound-isolating practice rooms, fixed and portable audience seating, and portable and mobile staging systems.  Our furniture line includes music posture chairs, music stands, conductor’s equipment, and a full line of high-density and portable storage solutions for instruments, garments, sheet music and media equipment.  We also offer a complete line of athletic lockers, equipment storage and transport products.  For more information call 1.507.455.4100 or visit www.wengercorp.com.

# # #