Otis Technology Announces New CEO – Bill Kleftis
Megan Plete Postol 03.29.22
Otis Technology, maker of top-tier gun cleaning products, has recently announced leadership changes. Bill Kleftis will take the helm as the new Chief Executive Officer, effective April 4. Kleftis will be charged with overseeing Otis Technology and its sister brands, Shooter’s Choice and DRD Tactical. Otis Technology is known for the unique Breech-to-Muzzle® gun cleaning design that set the brand apart from competitors. For decades, Otis Technology has the gun care system of choice with the US Military.
Kleftis brings more than 25 years’ senior management and executive level experience, with a specialty in engineering leadership, to this new role. His previous roles include Executive Vice President for Engineering Manufacturing Technologies, LLC, Vice President of Engineering for New York Air Brake and Vice President of Engineering & Operations for Carlin Combustion. Kleftis is also a certified Agile Scrum Master and Lean champion.
Current CEO, Larry Williams will resume his role on Otis Technology’s Advisory Board. In addition to this role, Williams will remain active in Otis operations through business development efforts, manufacturing specialty projects and consulting on new product innovation.
“Larry was instrumental in leading Otis Technology through a tumultuous period. The covid pandemic was no easy feat for any business, and he successfully navigated Otis through by guiding temporary strategic shifts while leveraging core competencies,” stated Doreen Garrett, Chairwoman of the Board for Otis Technology. “We are thrilled for Larry to move back into his position on the board and continue to drive strategy for the organization.”
“We are excited to have Bill as our new CEO,” remarked Williams. “I look forward to working side-by-side with him as I step into my new role. Bill’s demonstrated leadership background coupled with his extensive background in R&D/product development, operations, lean principles and sales will offer a great advantage to driving company strategy and continued growth. Moreover, he has a passion for firearms and this industry – which is paramount to success!”
Bill’s participation and support of the firearms industry includes firearm instruction and competition. In addition to being a firearms instructor for several counties in Northern New York, he is an NRA certified firearms instructor. His competitive nature has been nurtured over the last 15 years through participation in various pistol and 3-gun competitions.
