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Howard Hitchcock named President of Lionel

Allan MillerAllan MillerOGR Editor-in-Chief SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

From Lionel LLC:

 

HOWARD HITCHCOCK NAMED PRESIDENT OF LIONEL

 

CONCORD, NC (April 18, 2014) −

 

As has recently been announced, Jerry Calabrese has stepped down as President and CEO of Lionel after 10 years of leadership.

 

During Calabrese’s tenure, Lionel began consolidating its business operations in North Carolina, made substantial improvements to the product line, and also became an official partner of NASCAR and the NHRA with the addition of die-cast collectibles to the company’s portfolio.

 

The Lionel leadership team thanks Calabrese for his hard work and leadership, and wishes him well in his future endeavors.

 

Lionel announced today that Howard Hitchcock, who has directed the company’s daily operations for more than a year as Senior Vice President and General Manager of Lionel and has served in the same capacity at Lionel Racing since its inception in 2010, has been named President of Lionel.  As President, Hitchcock will be responsible for both the train and die-cast divisions of the business, and will continue to lead the strategic planning and daily operations of the company.

 

Hitchcock will be supported by an experienced leadership team that has years of expertise working in all aspects of the electric train business, from production and marketing to finance and sales.

 

“I’m fortunate to have such a strong and dedicated team of employees to support me as we transition into this exciting phase of Lionel’s history,” Hitchcock said. “Together, we are going to introduce new generations to the heritage and the wonder of Lionel trains.”

 

A key leader on the Lionel team is Chris Elrod, who was previously named Chief Financial Officer. Both Hitchcock and Elrod will direct Lionel business efforts going forward to ensure the company achieves continued success.

 

“The potential for growth and opportunity that have been a part of Lionel’s 114-year history is stronger than ever and being responsible for the continuance of that legacy is a role both Chris and I take very seriously,” Hitchcock said.

 

In addition, enterprise efforts in the digital space will continue to be led by Tony Bordon. Bordon has already played a key role in executing Lionel’s digital initiatives like Battle Train and Lioneltracks.com, and he will continue to advise and assist the management team with long-term strategic planning as it relates to the digital sphere.

 

Hitchcock and the Lionel leadership team will continue to be based in Concord, NC, the company’s new headquarters. Lionel’s service and parts department will transition to the North Carolina location this summer, as previously announced.

 

Last edited by Allan Miller
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RadioRonRadioRonOGR Forum Member
From KenJr's photos it looks like Mr. Hitchcock actually ENJOYS playing with, er ah, I mean, running, trains!  Hey, if he's half as creative as his grandfather, Alfred, he should do well!  ;<
 
Originally Posted by KenJrTW:,

Met Howard when he first came on board with Lionel.  Nice guy & very sharp. He will do very well for Lionel.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

P PGentieuOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBERMEMORIAL SUPPORTER
Originally Posted by SD60M:

Everyone seems to like Mr. Hitchcock...and...that is fine.

 

What is his resume or pedigree that makes him so accepted by a usually very critical group of train goobers?

I really don't know about his resume or "pedigree."  However, if he had anything to do with the 2014 Lionel catalogs or the original Lion Chief sets or the upgraded Lion Chief Plus sets and locomotives or "all of the above" (and my suspicion is that he had key roles) then I think we have gotten a peek at why we may be expecting more great things from Mr. Hitchcock and Lionel. 

Allan MillerAllan MillerOGR Editor-in-Chief SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER
Originally Posted by SD60M:

What is his resume or pedigree that makes him so accepted by a usually very critical group of train goobers?

If you want a glimpse at his resume, just do a Google search and you'll find a significant portion of his resume comes up as part of his LinkIn participation.

 

I spent a decent amount of time talking with Mr. Hitchcock when he was in the area for last summer's Lionel Service Center Open House.  I am confident he is well equipped to guide Lionel in an ever-forward direction, and will be a fine custodian of Lionel's distinctive legacy.  He's also just a darn nice guy.

S SD60MOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER
Originally Posted by PGentieu:
Originally Posted by SD60M

I really don't know about his resume or "pedigree."  However, if he had anything to do with the 2014 Lionel catalogs or the original Lion Chief sets or the upgraded Lion Chief Plus sets and locomotives or "all of the above" (and my suspicion is that he had key roles) then I think we have gotten a peek at why we may be expecting more great things from Mr. Hitchcock and Lionel. 

 I guess that's my "point."  How did an apparent outsider get so smart...so quick? Even a real smart guy would need some time...maybe more than he has had...to get up to speed on what the product even is...much less make such innovation and leaps and bounds overall.  Did he just come in and rubber stamp all the bright ideas of a mega-talented staff?

Last edited by SD60M
Allan MillerAllan MillerOGR Editor-in-Chief SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER
Originally Posted by SD60M:

 I guess that's my "point."  How did an apparent outsider get so smart...so quick? Even a real smart guy would need some time...maybe more than he has had...to get up to speed on what the product even is...much less make such innovation and leaps and bounds overall.  Did he just come in and rubber stamp all the bright ideas of a mega-talented staff?

Smart guys--successful ones--always tend to surround themselves with colleagues who are as smart or smarter than they are.

Gary PGary POGR Forum Member DIGITAL SUBSCRIBER
Originally Posted by pennsydave:

My only concern is that future Lionel trains will only be able to turn left on an oval!

That's why you build your layout like a racing road course instead so you can have both left and right curves like Watkins Glen International, just be careful not to try to have too sharp elevation changes in your track, trains are a total different beast compared to racing cars but now we can enjoy both! Good luck in the future to Jerry and Congratulations to Howard as Lionel's new president. May you carry on Lionel following Jerry's path back to the top of the O gauge world. wishing you good luck!

FM Former Member

Unless we serve on the BOD, it is not up to us to delve into the professional background of Lionel's new President. In my opinion, plain and simple, it is none of our business. Again in my opinion, this appointment was far from a whim and the powers that be at Lionel made sure they got it right. As previously stated, Howard has served as VP and GM for over a year and obviously the BOD is pleased with his accomplishments or this announcement would not have happened today.

 

So let's wish him well in his new position. Accomplishments will be the true test of his pedigree.

S SD60MOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

I satisfied my curiosity...and that's all it is...about Mr. Hitchcock...and looked him up on "Linked-IN."  There's not much more there than has been typed here...or published by the Lionel news release...so, the subject is closed with me.

 

Apparently, a great leader who can steer a greater team in the direction it needs to go.

 

More power to him and good luck!

L LandsteinerOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBER

"Guggenheim Capitol Management."

 

Obama tries to run the Capitol.  Guggenheim runs the Lionel Capital .

 

Guggenheim is not a majority equity holder so I'd venture that  the decision on leadership change is a group decision of most or all of the equity holders, which includes Calabrese himself, and other Lionel management,   I believe.

 

The notion that Lionel is owned by some nefarious group of a few greedy, venture capitalists/private equity nabobs is incorrect.  This isn't Barbarians at the Gate or Bonfire of the Vanities.  There are some very sensible, responsible and effective private equity firms in this country, and if Lionel is any example, Guggenheim is one of them.  Sole proprietorships aren't necessarily more ethical.  Bernard Madoff is an example.  It's the people, not the technical details of ownership that define a company.

Last edited by Landsteiner
Al K.Al K.OGR Forum Member
Originally Posted by falconservice:

Will he give a talk on new products at the TCA?

 


Come and Meet Lionel New President Howard Hitchcock at LCCA 4-23-14 Dutch Treat Dinner Event In York PA Come and meet with Lionel new President Howard Hitchcock and Mike Phillips at the April 23, 2014 LCCA casual Dutch Treat dinner and social event at Smokey Bones Restaurant in York PA. LCCA members, family and friends are all invited to attend a casual, informal get together on Wednesday evening April 23, 2014 at Smokey Bones Restaurant and Bar in York, PA 17404 (717-846-3760). This will be a Dutch Treat event starting at 6:30 PM till? This Annual event is a great opportunity to meet with fellow members from all over the country. Smokey Bones Restaurant and Bar is located at 1301 Kenneth Road in York, PA - Phone 717-846-3760 Let's get together and talk trains in York PA! Meet with Lionel Mike Phillips and Howard Hitchcock, LCCA officers and directors, volunteers and most importantly, other LCCA members from all around the country. We look forward to seeing you all there! Spread the word to your fellow LCCA members. Invite your friends, and encourage them to join our club. We know how to have F. U. N! If you have any questions, please contact: Al Kolis - 248-790-4137 Remember, as part of the LCCA Special Events program, LCCA President Dennis DeVito has increased the goal and we need to reach out and meet with 2,300 LCCA members during the next 12 months. We encourage you to participate, bring your entire family and attend these LCCA special events. If you have an interest or ideas about hosting a LCCA special event in your area, please contact Al Kolis at agkolis@comcast.net or 248-709-4137. We are looking for family oriented, train related, fun LCCA special events in your area. Al Kolis President Elect & Special Events Manager Lionel Collectors Club of America 248-709-4137 agkolis@comcast.net

David MinarikDavid MinarikOGR Forum Member DIGITAL SUBSCRIBER
Originally Posted by Allan Miller:
Originally Posted by SD60M:

 I guess that's my "point."  How did an apparent outsider get so smart...so quick? Even a real smart guy would need some time...maybe more than he has had...to get up to speed on what the product even is...much less make such innovation and leaps and bounds overall.  Did he just come in and rubber stamp all the bright ideas of a mega-talented staff?

Smart guys--successful ones--always tend to surround themselves with colleagues who are as smart or smarter than they are.

Allan,  That IS the secret to success!  Dave

S shawnOGR Forum Member
Dutch treat at Smokey Bones. Geez, will all the real Dutch / German style restaurants ln the area, couldn't you have treated him to one of them. Maybe, Shady Maple.
 
Originally Posted by Al K.:
Originally Posted by falconservice:

Will he give a talk on new products at the TCA?

 


Come and Meet Lionel New President Howard Hitchcock at LCCA 4-23-14 Dutch Treat Dinner Event In York PA Come and meet with Lionel new President Howard Hitchcock and Mike Phillips at the April 23, 2014 LCCA casual Dutch Treat dinner and social event at Smokey Bones Restaurant in York PA. LCCA members, family and friends are all invited to attend a casual, informal get together on Wednesday evening April 23, 2014 at Smokey Bones Restaurant and Bar in York, PA 17404 (717-846-3760). This will be a Dutch Treat event starting at 6:30 PM till? This Annual event is a great opportunity to meet with fellow members from all over the country. Smokey Bones Restaurant and Bar is located at 1301 Kenneth Road in York, PA - Phone 717-846-3760 Let's get together and talk trains in York PA! Meet with Lionel Mike Phillips and Howard Hitchcock, LCCA officers and directors, volunteers and most importantly, other LCCA members from all around the country. We look forward to seeing you all there! Spread the word to your fellow LCCA members. Invite your friends, and encourage them to join our club. We know how to have F. U. N! If you have any questions, please contact: Al Kolis - 248-790-4137 Remember, as part of the LCCA Special Events program, LCCA President Dennis DeVito has increased the goal and we need to reach out and meet with 2,300 LCCA members during the next 12 months. We encourage you to participate, bring your entire family and attend these LCCA special events. If you have an interest or ideas about hosting a LCCA special event in your area, please contact Al Kolis at agkolis@comcast.net or 248-709-4137. We are looking for family oriented, train related, fun LCCA special events in your area. Al Kolis President Elect & Special Events Manager Lionel Collectors Club of America 248-709-4137 agkolis@comcast.net

 

S shawnOGR Forum Member
"Hitchcock and Elrod" Oh, boy. What great character names for the Doctor ZW
video/movie.
 
 
Originally Posted by Allan Miller:

From Lionel LLC:

 

HOWARD HITCHCOCK NAMED PRESIDENT OF LIONEL

 

CONCORD, NC (April 18, 2014) −

 

As has recently been announced, Jerry Calabrese has stepped down as President and CEO of Lionel after 10 years of leadership.

 

During Calabrese’s tenure, Lionel began consolidating its business operations in North Carolina, made substantial improvements to the product line, and also became an official partner of NASCAR and the NHRA with the addition of die-cast collectibles to the company’s portfolio.

 

The Lionel leadership team thanks Calabrese for his hard work and leadership, and wishes him well in his future endeavors.

 

Lionel announced today that Howard Hitchcock, who has directed the company’s daily operations for more than a year as Senior Vice President and General Manager of Lionel and has served in the same capacity at Lionel Racing since its inception in 2010, has been named President of Lionel.  As President, Hitchcock will be responsible for both the train and die-cast divisions of the business, and will continue to lead the strategic planning and daily operations of the company.

 

Hitchcock will be supported by an experienced leadership team that has years of expertise working in all aspects of the electric train business, from production and marketing to finance and sales.

 

“I’m fortunate to have such a strong and dedicated team of employees to support me as we transition into this exciting phase of Lionel’s history,” Hitchcock said. “Together, we are going to introduce new generations to the heritage and the wonder of Lionel trains.”

 

A key leader on the Lionel team is Chris Elrod, who was previously named Chief Financial Officer. Both Hitchcock and Elrod will direct Lionel business efforts going forward to ensure the company achieves continued success.

 

“The potential for growth and opportunity that have been a part of Lionel’s 114-year history is stronger than ever and being responsible for the continuance of that legacy is a role both Chris and I take very seriously,” Hitchcock said.

 

In addition, enterprise efforts in the digital space will continue to be led by Tony Bordon. Bordon has already played a key role in executing Lionel’s digital initiatives like Battle Train and Lioneltracks.com, and he will continue to advise and assist the management team with long-term strategic planning as it relates to the digital sphere.

 

Hitchcock and the Lionel leadership team will continue to be based in Concord, NC, the company’s new headquarters. Lionel’s service and parts department will transition to the North Carolina location this summer, as previously announced.

 

 

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