Klein Tools (Lincolnshire, IL) has named Greg Palese as the company's vice president of marketing. According to a press release, in the newly created position, Palese will manage the growing marketing needs of the North American and international markets which Klein Tools serves.

As vice president, marketing, Palese will be responsible for Klein Tools' marketing strategy, while growing the brand globally. He will also partner with product development and sales to define opportunities and develop business plans to support company objectives.

“Greg’s expertise in developing and launching products and brand strategies will contribute to the expansion of Klein Tools,” comments John McDevitt, executive vice president sales and marketing. “His innovative thinking and vision will help drive growth and market share both here and abroad.”

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With more than 20 years of professional experience, Palese comes to Klein Tools from Lowe’s Home Improvement, where he managed the Kobalt Tools brand and was responsible for the recent launch of Kobalt's Handheld Power Tool lineup. Under his direction, Kobalt was named a “Brand to Watch” in Landor’s “Breakaway Brands” study, for the brand's significant upward momentum from 2008-2011.

Prior to that, Palese was a brand manager at PEAK/Old World Industries, working on the company's branded and private label wiper blade programs, as well as the launch of Procter & Gamble’s branded automotive products into the automotive retail channel. He has also worked for several advertising agencies on many local, regional and national brands.

Palese holds a bachelor of science degree in business administration and marketing management from Villanova University and an MBA with a concentration in e-business from De Paul University.

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