Milwaukee’s world-renowned motorcycle company is making the acting presidency and CEO role for Jochen Zeitz a permanent one.
Harley-Davidson has chosen Zeitz for the role, while also serving as chairman of the board.
Zeitz was the former CEO of Puma, and is credited with turning around that athletic shoe and apparel brand.
“As the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 crisis and recovery persists and given the significant changes that are needed at the company, solidifying Jochen as CEO demonstrates both the board’s confidence in him and Jochen’s commitment to leading the company through this extraordinary time,” Thomas Linebarger, who was named presiding director, said in a news release.
“During this extraordinary time of crisis my first priority is the well-being of our H-D community as I execute our COVID-19 response plan efforts to stabilize the business, resume operations and recover,” Zeitz said in the same news release. “I am also leading a necessary and comprehensive overhaul of the company structure, operating model, and strategy as we adjust to the new post COVID-19 realities.
“Over the next few months, we will rewire the business and define a new 5-year strategic plan later this year. I will then oversee the implementation of these changes and reignite Harley-Davidson as one of the most revered and iconic brands in the world.”
