Ratliff Assumes Chairmanship of the NAM's Manufacturing Institute

01/14/08 -  WASHINGTON, D.C. – Robert J. Ratliff, founder and retired chairman, president and CEO of AGCO Corporation in Duluth, GA, is the new chairman of The Manufacturing Institute, the research and education arm of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), the nation’s largest industrial trade association.  Ratliff will serve a two-year term (2008-10).  He succeeds Joe Loughrey, president and COO of Cummins, Inc.

“U.S. manufacturing faces unprecedented competitive challenges but continues to be a global powerhouse in productivity, innovation and output,” said Ratliff.   “The Institute is the most effective organization focused on increasing understanding of and respect for U.S. manufacturing.  I am proud to advance this important mission.  In the coming year, the Institute will conduct research and studies that will form the basis of new insights into today’s manufacturing on topics ranging from the global competitiveness of North American manufacturers to the growing use of cutting-edge nanotechnology.”  

“Bob’s strong record of leadership and success in manufacturing will serve the Institute well in its efforts to promote the U.S. manufacturing economy,” commented NAM President and CEO Engler.  “If it were a country, the $1.6 trillion U.S. manufacturing sector would be the eighth largest economy in the world.  The Manufacturing Institute has the important role of shedding light for policymakers and the media about the vital contributions of manufacturing to America’s standard of living and the significant challenges facing our sector, from growing shortages of skilled workers to rising energy, health care and other structural costs.”

Ratliff founded AGCO Corporation in 1990 and directed the turnaround of this traditional farm equipment supplier into a multi-billion dollar, profitable global manufacturer that does business in more than 140 countries worldwide. He has more than 46 years of experience in the truck, tire and farm equipment industries.