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Layton Systems, Inc., a trusted U.S. manufacturer of food-processing, conveying, and product-handling equipment, is pleased to announce the appointment of Alan Hafner as Vice President of Sales.
Hafner, an owner of Layton Systems, brings extensive experience in manufacturing operations, engineering, production management, and business development to his expanded leadership role. His appointment reflects the company's commitment to strengthening its sales organization, expanding strategic partnerships, and supporting continued growth in domestic and international markets.
As Vice President of Sales, Hafner will oversee the company's sales strategy, support the development of new business opportunities, strengthen relationships with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and guide the continued expansion of Layton's sales organization.
Under his recent leadership, Layton Systems has expanded its sales department from one salesperson to three, complemented by a sales representative organization in Mexico. The company is also increasing its focus on international business development, particularly in Europe and Latin America, while continuing to strengthen relationships with food processors, packaging equipment manufacturers, and system integrators throughout North America.
"Layton Systems has built its reputation on engineering innovative, reliable equipment and developing long-term relationships with our customers," said Hafner. "As we continue to grow, our focus is on strengthening our sales organization, expanding our partnerships with leading equipment manufacturers, and bringing Layton's capabilities to more customers around the world. We have an experienced team and tremendous opportunities ahead of us."
Hafner's extensive manufacturing background provides a unique perspective on sales leadership, allowing him to align customer requirements with practical engineering solutions, production capabilities, and long-term operational objectives.
He returned to Layton Systems as Production Manager in 2011, overseeing manufacturing operations during a period of substantial growth in the company's food-processing equipment business. Following his relocation to Montana in 2016, he remained actively involved with the company as an owner.
His earlier experience at Layton includes serving as Manufacturing Engineer from 2004 to 2005 and Production Manager from 2005 to 2007. During this period, he managed production scheduling, materials, and shop operations, supervising approximately 30 employees as company sales doubled.
Hafner also played an important role in integrating the operations of A.B. McLauchlan, acquired in 2004, and Welliver Metal Products, acquired in 2007. He helped coordinate the company's relocation to its West Salem manufacturing facility in 2007.
Prior to returning to Layton Systems, Hafner worked at Gerber Legendary Blades, where he contributed to new-product development before assuming responsibility for planning and inventory control. His experience included forecasting, sales and operations planning, supplier negotiations, and new-product introductions.
Hafner holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from Oregon State University and a Master of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering from Virginia Tech.
His combination of engineering expertise, manufacturing leadership, and business development experience positions him to help guide Layton Systems through its next phase of growth.
