TOGETHER IS BETTER

DexKo was formed at the end of 2015 by combining Dexter and AL-KO Vehicle Technology (VT). This combination creates a global leader in highly engineered trailer running gear components and systems, with over 130 years of trailer and caravan componentry experience.

Since 1960, Dexter has served the North American utility trailer, recreational vehicle, heavy duty, manufactured housing, agricultural, marine, and specialty trailer markets. 50 million-plus Dexter axles have been installed by OEMs since our founding.

In highly automated ISO-certified U.S.-based facilities, we manufacture these quality-engineered products:

  • Axles, suspensions, brakes, actuators, and other trailer components
  • Recreational vehicle, horse / livestock and utility trailer entry doors
  • Recreational vehicle and housing ventilation products

Dexter also offers the largest distribution network in the U.S. and Canada.

Our customers know Dexter as a true partner. That’s why we’re known for continual improvement in all our operations.  And it’s why we’ve built such a strong reputation as a progressive industry leader.

Since 1931, AL-KO VT has built its reputation as technology-driven company, with more than 40 sites in Europe, South America, Asia and Australia.

AL-KO VT offers high-quality axles and chassis components for trailers, recreational vehicles and light commercial vehicles.  Our premium products and solutions include:

  • Trailer components
  • Industrial components
  • Shock absorbers
  • AMC
  • Chassis
  • Plastic technologies
  • Gas springs

At AL-KO VT, we put customer comfort at the forefront. That’s why we’re known for innovative safety products, optimum ergonomics and functionality. We also offer specialty designs and individual conversions so that nothing stands in the way of you enjoying your holiday. A smooth, safe journey is guaranteed.

DexKo is the global leader in highly engineered, technology driven, running gear and structural solutions for the growing towable work and recreational trailer industry

FORMED at the end of 2015 by combining Dexter and AL-KO VT. This combination creates a global leader in highly engineered trailer running gear components and systems, with over 130 years of trailer and caravan componentry experience.

MANAGED out of Novi, Michigan by a strategic staff of executives focused on leveraging the resources of the combined companies. With enhanced scale, operating leverage, capital efficiencies and diversity, DexKo will deliver:

  • Market leadership in product development and innovation
  • Improved customer service through the sharing of technology and best practices
  • Increased manufacturing flexibility
  • Great efficiency through global sourcing

ONGOING FOCUS: Profitable growth across its entire footprint through outstanding customer service, product quality and innovation, operational efficiencies and accretive acquisitions.

CUSTOMER SERVICE COMMITMENT: We’ll maintain the unparalleled customer service and product quality that the market has come to trust in both Dexter and AL-KO VT.

OUR LEADERSHIP

At DexKo Global, we take leadership seriously. It’s our opportunity and responsibility to provide the marketplace with quality engineered products and services with the highest level of customer service. We have a commitment to provide safe, reliable products to our consumers in all markets and countries we serve.

CEO

Fred Bentley

Fred Bentley has held the position of President and Chief Executive Officer of DexKo Global since January 2016.  He oversees the Dexter Axle and AL-KO VT global operations.  Additionally, he has served on Dexter’s Board of Directors since 2014.

Fred has significant experience running global operations and growing businesses while working with world-class companies.  Prior to joining DexKo, he was the CEO of Maxion Wheels, a $2.4 billion global automotive equipment supplier and the world’s largest wheel company.  He oversaw the $1.2 billion European operation and lived in Germany for three years prior to becoming CEO of Maxion.  He held the position of COO and President of International Operations of Hayes Lemmerz, leading the company’s sale process (to Maxion) and the divestitures of non-core businesses while significantly globalizing the core business.

Prior experience also includes six years running an international business with significant operational experience at Honeywell/Allied Signal and seven years in operations, finance, and strategy at Frito Lay.  Fred has a BS in Industrial Engineering from the University of Cincinnati, and attended the Harvard Business School Advanced Management Program.

CFO

Jeff Richard

Jeff joined DexKo in October 2017 and oversees the Dexter and AL-KO global financial organizations.

Prior to DexKo, Jeff was the CFO of SRS Distribution, a $2 billion private equity backed building products company. During his time there, Revenues and EBITDA rose through both organically and through 6 successful acquisitions which led to a large dividend, which returned 110% of the investors’ investment. Prior to joining SRS, Jeff served as CFO at Checkpoint Systems, a NYSE publicly traded global technology company. Through various initiatives and a keen focus on managing the business through a Lean/Six Sigma lens, Checkpoint experienced a significant rise in profitability in 2 years which ultimately led to the successful sale of the company. Before Checkpoint, he was the CFO for Safety-Kleen, a PE backed $1.5B environmental services company where again experienced an EBITDA increase which led to a dual path IPO/Sale of the company for a successful exit.

Other roles that Jeff has held include COO/CFO of Pavestone Company, CFO of Jacuzzi, Inc., and various divisional CFO roles at Tyco International.

Jeff has a B.S. degree in Business Administration/Accounting from Louisiana State University.

COO

Ed Meador

Ed’s 30 plus years of leadership responsibility focused on increasing profitability throughout global and domestic organizations. As COO of DexKo Global, Ed will be focused on driving cost improvements and positioning both organizations for future growth and profitability. Prior to joining DexKo Global, Ed served as SVP North America for Haldex Brake Products Inc. for the last 2.5 years. Prior to Haldex, Ed led Motor Wheel CVS as CEO for 7 years. Ed is a 1984 graduate of Marshall University with a Bachelor degree in Business Management.

Vice President, Financial Planning and Analysis

Matt Griffith

As former VP of Financial Planning & Analysis, Matt reported directly to the CEO for Maxion Wheels, a $2.4B global automotive equipment supplier and world’s largest wheel company. Matt has 20+ years of accounting and financial leadership in automotive industry. His focused experience developing business partnerships with operations and executive teams to drive improvement in business performance. Prior experience includes Plant Controller of the Akron facility for Maxion Wheels, various positions of accounting and financial management at Robert Bosch LLC and Business Unit Controller with Comau PICO.

VP of Business Development & Strategy

Scott Everly

Scott Everly joined DexKo Global in October 2016, as Vice President of Business Development and Strategy, responsible for M&A strategy development, transaction execution and strategic initiatives. Scott has nearly 20 years of experience in transactions, strategy and finance, with experience in manufacturing, banking and consulting. Scott joins DexKo from Masco Corporation, a $7 billion publicly traded building products manufacturer, where he has spent over 11 years focused primarily on mergers, acquisitions and strategy. Most recently, Scott was a Director of Corporate Development, responsible for directing Masco’s global acquisition and divestiture execution activities. During his time at Masco, Scott closed over 25 transactions, including the tax-free spin-off of Top Build (NYSE: BLD) to Masco shareholders.

Prior to joining Masco, Scott worked at BNP Paribas, a multinational corporate and investment bank, in its New York and London offices, as well as at Deloitte & Touche in Detroit.

Scott has a MBA degree with concentrations in Finance, Management and Strategy from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Georgetown University.

President & CEO of AL-KO Vehicle Technology

Harald Hiller

Harald Hiller joined the company in 1996. Since 2006 he is responsible for all facets of the business. Harald has a proven executive management and leadership track record and over 25 years of experience driving profitable growth within fast moving technology driven businesses.

He has accomplished domestic and international experience in operations, P & L responsibility, new market identification and strategic positioning for a multimillion dollar organization.

Prior to his current role, Mr. Hiller was Senior Vice President Logistics and Production for AL-KO Vehicle Technology in Europe (1999 – 2006) and Vice President of the main plants in Koetz (1996 – 1999).

Mr Hiller started his career as Head of Production and Electronic Manufacturing at Mannesmann Tally and Technical Director of Heidolph Instruments before joining AL-KO.

Harald Hiller holds a diploma in Engineering and Business Administration from the universities of applied sciences in Ulm and Rendsburg (Germany).

President & CEO Dexter

Adam Dexter

Adam Dexter joined Dexter in 1993 and assumed current role in 2008.  He is responsible for the overall vision, strategy and execution of the companies’ growth and operational plans.  Mr. Dexter has served in various management and executive roles with a steady and progressive increase in responsibilities which include Production Superintendent, Plant Manager, Director of Operations, and Divisional President. He led the 2008 and 2009 restructuring efforts that effectively mitigated the economic downturn and continued profitability as well as positioned the company for sustainable growth.  He was instrumental in leading Dexter during Tomkins move from Public to Private and when Dexter was acquired by the Sterling Group.  He has served on the Company’s board of directors since November 2012.  He is active in industry trade associations and has served on the board of directors for The Recreation Vehicle Industry Association since 2010 and for the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers since 2011. Mr. Dexter has a Bachelor’s Degree from DePauw University.  Mr. Dexter is the grandson of Leonard Dexter who founded Dexter Axle Co. in 1960.

Vice President of Human Resources

Danean Whipkey

Danean Whipkey joined DexKo Global in May 2018 as Vice President of Human Resources, responsible for creating and driving a contemporary HR strategy that aligns with and reinforces our global vision and objectives. Danean has had the opportunity to work in nearly all areas of human resources in her career, including Compensation & Benefits, Training & Development, Operational and International HR, Organizational Development and Corporate HR. Danean spent nearly 14 years with Maxion Wheels prior to joining us, most recently on an international assignment as the Director, Global Compensation & Europe HR.

Danean has her Master’s Degree in Labor Relations & Human Resources and her Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing from Michigan State University.

NEWS AND MEDIA

DEXKO GLOBAL, INC.

Suite 525
39555 Orchard Hill Place
Novi, Michigan 48375

Ph: (248) 533-0029
Fx: (877) 464-1136
info@dexko.com

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