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Takeuchi-US has named Dylan Hendricks, Scott Erickson, Jacob Vaughn and Scott Hinman as its newest regional business managers. Each will cover different Takeuchi regions, with Hendricks serving the South-Central U.S., Erickson handling the Central-Midwest, Vaughn managing the Midwest and Hinman supporting the Northeast.
The additions of Hendricks, Erickson, Vaughn and Hinman underscore Takeuchi’s commitment to supporting its dealer network and customers with experienced regional leadership across key U.S. markets. In their new roles, the four will lead sales and business development activities across their regions and work closely with Takeuchi dealers to grow market share, support retail sales and strengthen the company’s dealer network. They will also collaborate with dealers on sales planning and performance goals while providing market insights and supporting key accounts.
Prior to joining Takeuchi, Hendricks gained experience as the branch manager of an agricultural equipment dealership. He also managed a compact equipment dealership and worked in the banking industry. Based in Blanchard, Okla., Hendricks will work with Takeuchi dealers throughout the South-Central U.S.
Erickson comes to Takeuchi with experience in strategic account management and consulting within the agricultural equipment industry. His background includes working with equipment dealerships to strengthen operations and support business growth. Erickson will support Takeuchi dealers across the Central Midwest region from his home in St. Paul, Minn.
Vaughn joins Takeuchi with experience in equipment sales and customer support within the construction equipment industry. His background includes working closely with dealers and contractors to identify equipment solutions and support business growth throughout his territory. Based in Lexington, Ky., Vaughn will support Takeuchi dealers in the Midwest region.
“Dylan, Scott and Jake bring strong industry experience and a clear understanding of what it takes to support our dealers and customers in the field,” said Shay Klusmeyer, Takeuchi’s sales manager for the Central/Western U.S. “Their focus on building relationships, supporting dealer growth and identifying new opportunities will help strengthen our presence across their regions and continue delivering the high level of service people have come to expect from Takeuchi.”
Hinman joins Takeuchi with extensive experience in equipment sales and dealer support, including roles in district sales management and dealership leadership. His background also includes time spent working in the equipment rental industry. Based in Baldwinsville, N.Y., Hinman will assist Takeuchi dealers throughout the Northeastern U.S.
“Scott’s experience and commitment to supporting our dealer network make him a great addition to the Takeuchi team,” said John Vranches, Takeuchi’s division sales manager for the Eastern U.S. and Canada. “He understands the importance of working closely with dealers and customers to grow the business, and we’re excited to have him helping expand Takeuchi’s presence in the Northeast.”
Focal Pointe fills newly created diresctor of purpose role
Focal Pointe announced the appointment of Julie Culbertson as director of purpose, a newly created role focused on enriching the lives of clients and employees through their interaction with the company.
She joins Focal Pointe’s leadership team with deep expertise in retail management and bilingual education, along with a strong track record in helping teams achieve high engagement, productivity and consistency, plus connecting those outcomes to a shared sense of purpose.
In her new role, Culbertson will focus on understanding what each person brings to the team and the impact they make every day.
“If culture is how we show up, purpose is why it matters,” said Culbertson. “People do their best work when expectations are clear, effort is valued and they understand how their work is connected to something meaningful. My role is to translate vision and values into daily behaviors, habits and standards — connecting our mission to how people show up and build collective ownership that keeps Focal Pointe’s culture strong as we grow.”
In addition to working with Focal Pointe leaders to connect purpose to strategy, she will draw on employee feedback and assessment tools to help employees recognize their vast potential and create systems, processes and training programs to guide them in their pursuit.
“We just have this deep conviction that our purpose is to beautify the world, not only in the work we do, but the manner in which we do it,” said founder and president, John Munie. “Julie’s job is to ensure our customers, employees and communities feel the warmth, authenticity and durability of Focal Pointe. In my view, the ultimate measure of success is how effective you are serving others and enriching lives. The landscape industry is uniquely positioned to play that role in the world, and I expect Focal Pointe to be one of the companies leading the charge.”
Julie earned a master’s degree in English from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and began her career teaching English as a Second Language with Lindenwood University. She lived in Guatemala and later thrived for 14 years on the leadership team with Trader Joes’s, a brand known for its strong culture and customer loyalty, according to the company.
“Julie’s leadership style, track record and genuine care for people make her a strong fit for Focal Pointe,” Munie said. “We’re glad to have her on board — she understands who we are and what we’re trying to build.”
Ruppert Landscape makes two branch manager promotions
Ruppert Landscape has promoted Max Graumann and Mason Bolesta to branch manager in the company’s Annapolis, Md., and Silver Springs, Md., landscape maintenance branches, respectively.
Graumann joined Ruppert in 2021 as an area manager in Forestville, Md., where he quickly distinguished himself through his strong operational expertise, leadership and ability to build high-performing teams, according to the company. When the Annapolis branch was established, he stepped forward to help build it from the ground up, taking on the role of associate branch manager and playing an integral part in its development and success.
“Max is a great example of why investing in associate branch managers matters — he’s prepared for this opportunity and has earned it,” said Kyle Meissner, region manager. “He leads by example every day, and I have full confidence he’s going to do a great job continuing to build the Annapolis team and driving it forward.”
Bolesta joined Ruppert in 2021 as an enhancement manager after building a strong background in turf management and quickly distinguished himself through his operational knowledge and relationship- and team-building skills. In 2024, he was promoted to associate branch manager, where he has continued to play an integral role in the success of the Silver Spring branch.
“Mason has truly embraced what it takes to lead a branch and build a strong team,” said Melissa Dunk, region manager. “He’s as dedicated as they come and always looking for ways to grow and support his team. I’m excited to see what he accomplishes in this next chapter.”
In their new roles, Graumann and Bolesta will oversee branch operations, cultivate client relationships and support the continued growth of Ruppert Landscape’s maintenance presence in their respective Maryland markets. The branches offer a full range of commercial landscaping services, including landscape maintenance, design and enhancements, turf care, irrigation management, pond and lake management, snow removal, arbor care and outdoor lighting and decor.
Altoz appoints David Bates as district sales manager
Altoz, Inc. revealed that David Bates has joined the company as district sales manager, serving Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio. In this role, Bates will be responsible for supporting dealer development, strengthening relationships and driving Altoz sales growth across the region.
Bates brings experience in ground care equipment and sales, along with a strong understanding of customer needs in commercial and residential applications. His background will support Altoz’s continued focus on delivering solutions that perform in demanding environments, according to the company.
“David’s industry experience and customer-first approach make him a strong addition to our sales team,” said Mark Miller, national sales director. “His ability to build relationships and support dealers at a high level will help the Altoz brand continue to grow across the Midwest.”
Bates will work directly with Altoz dealers to deliver product knowledge, sales support and training while helping grow market presence for Altoz outdoor power equipment across the Midwest.
“I’m excited to join Altoz and represent a product line known for its innovation and performance,” said Bates. “I look forward to working closely with our dealer network to expand opportunities and support continued growth in the region.”
