Stellar Industries Inc. recently appointed David Backus as the new chief financial officer, and Steve Schnieders as the new manager of operations.

Backus was previously a financial consultant for two years. Prior to consulting, Backus was the vice president of finance at The Knapheide Manufacturing Company for more than seven years. He also held several financial management positions within Titan Wheel International, Connell Limited Partnership and Steward Warner Corporation.

Backus will be responsible for overall financial management, strategic and financial planning, financial and cost accounting, treasury and risk management.

“I’m most looking forward to contributing to a growing company, such as Stellar Industries,” said Backus. “I find my biggest challenge will be providing the necessary financial leadership as Stellar grows to the next level as a world class manufacturing company specializing in hydraulic truck equipment.”

Schnieders was previously the engineering manager of Stellar where he oversaw the management of technical and service related areas such as design engineering, research and development, customer service, and inspection. He also was involved in the design, testing, inspection and supporting of Stellar products.

The new responsibilities for Schnieders will involve overseeing management of all areas of manufacturing to ensure all products are properly approved, manufactured on schedule and fall within Stellar’s quality standards and cost objectives.

“I’m most looking forward to meeting and working with everyone involved in the manufacturing process here at Stellar,” said Schnieders, “and I look forward to fostering a healthy team culture favorable to the organization and to each employee.

“This will also be my biggest challenge … creating a personal relationship with each employee and providing them with timely information so they understand the impact of their position on the organization.”

For more information, call 800/321-3741 or visit www.stellarindustries.com.