Livermore, Calif., July 8, 2021 — GILLIG LLC, a leading manufacturer of heavy-duty transit buses in the U.S., today announced the appointment of Ben Grunat to the position of Vice President, Product Planning & Strategy. Grunat joined GILLIG in 2010 as the company’s finance controller before moving into sales leadership roles of increasing responsibility at GILLIG.

In his new position, Grunat will continue to further GILLIG’s capabilities in identifying, evaluating, and implementing advancements in technology, product improvements and expansions. His senior leadership responsibilities include establishing short- and long-term product development strategies and go-to-market planning and execution.

“We’re excited for Ben to take on this important role for GILLIG as we work to expand capabilities and product offerings in the clean-energy transit bus market,” said Derek Maunus, GILLIG President & CEO. “Since joining GILLIG, Ben has continued to deliver stellar performance. His broad industry knowledge, innovative mindset and tremendous leadership abilities will serve us well as we work to deliver reliable and industry-leading transit solutions to our customers.”

“I’m honored to work for a great company in GILLIG that has an amazing ‘people first’ family culture,” said Grunat. “I work with some of the most passionate and talented people in the public transit industry, people committed to delivering the highest quality, environmentally friendly products that enable people to access economic opportunities. GILLIG has an amazing history of American manufacturing excellence, and I’m looking forward to helping build the next chapters in our storied business.”

Grunat earned a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science degree in business form Indiana University. He was a recipient of Mass Transit Magazine’s 40 Under 40 Award in 2019.