Home » Machine tool manufacturer Mazak adds industry rival to management team

Machine tool manufacturer Mazak adds industry rival to management team

Florence, Ky. – Northern Kentucky-based Mazak has added the head of a rival Kentucky manufacturer as one of its vice presidents.

Mazak Corporation President Brian Papke expanded his leadership team with the appointment of Daniel Janka to the position of executive vice president, according to a press release from the company.

Mazak is a machine tool builder in Florence.

Most recently Janka served as the president and CEO of Fives Machining Systems, an industrial engineering group based in nearby Hebron, Ky.  Prior to Fives, he spent eight years at MAG Industrial Systems serving in a presidential capacity.

Papke said Janka’s extensive experience in product development and technology platform enhancements will add a new perspective to the Mazak.

“As we ramp up for the next Industrial Revolution where big data drives unconventional business growth, Dan will play an important role in ensuring our company and customers are on the right track for increased growth and stability,” Papke said. “His previous involvement in machine tool utilization software, for instance, dovetails precisely with our commitment to MTConnect and our new SmartBox technology platform that provides an easy, secure entrance into IIoT. We are confident in his leadership capabilities and trust his experience will help us expand these and other technologies intended for data-driven manufacturing and plantwide connectivity.”

Following a thorough search, Papke hand selected Janka who will officially begin his new post on January 1, 2016. Under Papke’s direction, Janka will be responsible for the company’s North American operations, which includes providing strategic leadership and performance management of the company’s short and long-term goals.

Janka holds a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering and technology from Southern Illinois University, an associate’s degree in mechanical technology from Illinois Community College and has completed post-graduate coursework in finance and economics at the University of Cincinnati.