Caterpillar makes an executive change
Caterpillar Inc. reported that Suzette M. Long, chief legal officer and general counsel will retire on December 31, 2023, following a distinguished 18-year career at the company.
The company said Derek Owens, who served as vice president and deputy general counsel, has assumed the role of SVP and general counsel. Following a period of transition, he will become chief legal officer and general counsel effective January 1, 2024.
“Suzette has been a trusted advisor, strategic business partner and an invaluable colleague to our executive office,” said Jim Umpleby, chairman and CEO at Caterpillar.
“She strengthened the legal function while supporting the execution of our strategy for profitable growth and helped lead Caterpillar through complex matters while reinforcing our commitment to help our customers build a better, more sustainable world. I thank Suzette for her dedicated service,” said Umpleby.
Owens has led Caterpillar teams in various practice areas in the legal department with a focus on supporting the business goals and serving the customer.
He is responsible for overseeing and providing legal guidance for commercial and transactional matters for services, distribution and digital, as well as enterprise-wide internal investigations, and tax and litigation matters.
“We are fortunate to have a deep bench of talent at Caterpillar,” said Umpleby. “Derek brings a unique set of skills that will benefit our law, security and public policy team and the entire enterprise.”
Owens joined Caterpillar in 2019 as associate general counsel, litigation and investigations, after 15 years of increasing responsibility at the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Department of Justice where he last served as a deputy chief.
He received his juris doctorate from Santa Clara University School of Law and his bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh.
“On behalf of our leadership team and the board of directors,” said the CEO, “I congratulate Derek on his new role.”
Irving, Texas-based Caterpillar Inc., with 2022 sales and revenues of $59.4 billion, describes itself as, “the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives.”
