New COO for Shop-Vac USA
Shop-Vac USA, the big name in wet/dry vacuum systems for consumer and commercial applications, named Charles “Charlie” Lawrence as new chief operations officer. Lawrence brings over 35 years of industry experience to Shop-Vac’s leadership team, with a track record of accelerating growth and revenue for Fortune 500 and private equity-backed companies nationwide.
In his new role, Lawrence will focus on product innovation, manufacturing, sales distribution and strategic planning to help gain momentum across all facets of business development. Lawrence will also implement new strategies and practices to foster an entrepreneurial, performance-based culture. He will report to Gary DuBoff, group president, GreatStar Tools USA in addition to working closely with the Shop-Vac management teams to oversee daily operations, including the company’s headquarters in Williamsport, PA. In joining the Shop-Vac team, Lawrence returns home to Pennsylvania, after spending nearly ten years on the West Coast.
“Charlie is a highly accomplished leader in the industry, with an undeniable knack for putting employees and customers first. We are thrilled to welcome Charlie to our Shop-Vac executive team, as he’s proven to be an incredible asset within the industrial and consumer space,” said DuBoff. “As our businesses continue to grow, Charlie’s years of experience and background in maintaining positive company culture while driving successful results fit perfectly into our long-term Shop-Vac strategy.
Most recently, Lawrence served as president for Workrite Ergonomics, an industry leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of height-adjustable work centers and ergonomic office accessories based in Petaluma, CA. Under Lawrence’s management, Workrite doubled company revenue while earning a spot on the Best Places to Work in the North Bay list from 2016 to 2019. In addition to Workrite, Lawrence has served in sales, product, and brand management roles at esteemed companies such as General Electric, Coleman, Brunswick, and Masco Corporation.
“Shop-Vac is a household name that has served both tradespeople and homeowners for decades. I’m excited to reinvigorate the brand’s loyal following and expand distribution throughout North America and beyond,” said Lawrence. “With a new vision for growth and innovation, Shop-Vac will not only maintain its reputation as a brand leader in the category but work toward delivering products that meet the industry’s evolving trends and of course, our customers’ changing needs.”
In December 2020, GreatStar, the leading manufacturer of hand tools in Asia, serving DIY, professional and industrial markets worldwide, acquired Shop-Vac. As part of the acquisition, GreatStar is committed to investing in expanding Shop-Vac’s industry leadership built on best-in-class innovation, features, value and manufacturing ability – utilizing a mix of both Asia-based and US-based manufacturing.