Gary Lada

About Gary Lada

I’m a results-driven executive with a passion for leading teams through transformation, growth, and complexity. With a track record of success across industries and geographies, I specialize in uniting global organizations around shared goals, building accountability, and consistently delivering value to customers and stakeholders.Currently, I serve as President of Harsco Rail, a global leader in Maintenance of Way (MoW) equipment, rail surfacing, and rail treatment technologies. I lead a team of 1,300+ employees across 30+ countries, focused on innovation, operational excellence, and building a culture rooted in transparency and accountability. Together, we’re delivering high-impact solutions that keep rail networks safe, efficient, and sustainable around the world.Previously, I was General Manager of a global specialty pump and mixing business, overseeing a P&L with 750+ employees in 18 countries. There, I helped drive organic growth, margin expansion, and team alignment—laying the foundation for long-term success.Prior to that, I led a major centrifugal compressor business through a global factory relocation, an enterprise-level merger (IR + Gardner Denver), and a product standardization initiative—all amid the pandemic and a volatile trade environment. These experiences sharpened my skills in stakeholder engagement, cross-functional execution, and change leadership.Before entering the flow and compression industries, I spent 16 years at GE Transportation, holding leadership roles in global locomotive technology, international product management, and business development. I was honored to serve on GE’s Corporate Leadership Staff, gaining valuable experience in technical, operational, and commercial strategy across emerging markets.I’ve built my career on resilience, adaptability, and deep curiosity—whether securing a $2B locomotive contract in India, launching a power business in the Philippines, or speaking at an infrastructure forum in China. I believe great leadership starts with being present, building trust, and showing up consistently for your team.Having traveled to 50+ countries, I bring a global mindset to every challenge. Outside of work, I’m a dedicated dad to three amazing boys, an aspiring wake surfer, and a committed weightlifter. I’m energized by what lies ahead—and confident the best is still to come.

Experience

1. President

   Harsco Rail

   May 2025 — Present · Charlotte, NC, US

   As President of Harsco Rail, I have the privilege of leading a global team of 1,300+ employees committed to advancing the safety, efficiency, and reliability of rail networks worldwide. Harsco Rail is a recognized industry leader in Maintenance of Way (MoW) equipment, rail surfacing, and rail treatment technologies, serving customers in over 30 countries.My focus is on driving strategic growth, operational excellence, and a strong culture of transparency and accountability across the organization. I’m passionate about building high-performing, aligned teams that deliver consistent value for customers, employees, and stakeholders.Working closely with engineering, manufacturing, and field service teams, I help lead the development and delivery of a comprehensive portfolio that includes track maintenance machines, rail grinders, ballast regulators, and innovative technology platforms. Together, we’re raising the bar for safety, sustainability, and long-term reliability in the rail industry.Proud to lead an organization helping shape the future of rail infrastructure around the world.

Education

• Penn State University

  BSME, Mechanical Engineering

Skills

• Supply Chain Management
• Strategic Sourcing
• Management
• Six Sigma
• Operations Management
• Negotiation
• Strategic Planning
• Continuous Improvement
• Lean Manufacturing
• Product Development
• Strategy
• Green Belt
• Leadership
• Global Sourcing
• Metrics
• L
• Project Management
• Sourcing
• Cross-Functional Team Leadership
• Procurement
• Black Belt
• Purchasing
• Manufacturing
• Process Improvement
• Product Management
• Contract Negotiation
• Supply Chain
• Change Management