Brian Hancock and Michael Naatz boost management team at Kansas City Southern

Kansas City Southern (KCS) has appointed Brian Hancock (pictured above) as chief innovation officer, with Michael Naatz taking over as chief marketing officer, both appointments effective from 1 October.

Chief executive officer Patrick Ottensmeyer described the appointments of both Mr Hancock and Mr Naatz as “extremely fortunate”.

“I am confident these appointments will further strengthen our leadership team and allow Brian and Mike to apply their diverse skills and experiences in new and exciting ways,” said Mr Ottensmeyer.

“It also keeps KCS on track to fulfil our vision to be the fastest-growing, best-performing, most customer-focused transportation company in North America.”

Mr Hancock’s is a newly created role. He joined KCS from Family Dollar in 2015 as chief marketing officer – a role he held for three years – and has also had stints at Martin-Brower, Whirlpool and Schneider National.

Mr Naatz joined KCS in 2012 as chief information officer with responsibility for planning. Prior to that, he held multiple roles over a six-year period at YRC Worldwide, leaving as chief customer officer.

“Among other things, Mike has strong experience in sales and customer service and a deep understanding of KCS’ operations,” added Mr Ottensmeyer.

“He has 30 years of experience leading transportation and logistics organisations, touching all aspects of executive management and leadership.

“This experience will be invaluable in merging traditional sales and marketing methods with new and developing technologies that our customers will expect in the future.”