Manitowoc appoints engineering and innovation SVP

A senior vice president of global engineering and innovation has been appointed at Manitowoc Cranes. Andreas Schwer is responsible for driving innovation in the cranes division and co-ordinating overall global engineering activities to enhance the culture of innovation and new technology.

He will report to Eric Etchart, Manitowoc president and general manager. Schwer's experience in research and development, and in change management, will unify Manitowoc's innovation, Etchart said.

"I am excited to have someone with Andreas' expertise and leadership abilities join our organization in this role," said Eric Etchart, Manitowoc president and general manager. "He brings impressive experience in transferring best-practice thinking into practical applications and establishing strategic partnerships with vendors and customers to drive and develop breakthrough technologies."

Schwer is an engineering manager most recently vice president of design and development at EADS Eurocopter. Other former employers include Daimler Benz Aerospace, the European Space Agency and the Institute for Space Systems at the University of Stuttgart.