Ex-Potain boss Cohet brings "vast network" to Arcomet

At Manitowoc, Cohet was responsible for the company's crane business in the EMEA region, with a particular focus on the Grove and Potain brands. Manitowoc's EMEA head quarters are based at the Potain head office in Lyons, France.

Arcomet describes itself as the largest independent tower crane rental house in the world, The company was founded in 1956 by Karel Theyskens, initially serving the Belgian mining industry. The company grew through the late 20th century, building an international business stretching from the USA (in a joint venture, P&J Arcomet) to Asia.

The rental company has for a long time been a major customer for Manitowoc's Potain tower cranes and self erectors, part of the business Cohet led for almost a decade, from 2004.

Dirk Theyskens, Arcomet's CEO, said, " After years of crisis in the construction industry, all major economic indicators point to a structural improvement of the world markets. The UK and USA have already rebounded to almost pre-crisis levels.

"Tower crane demand, whether in sales, rental or service will most likely increase and Arcomet will benefit from the experience of Philippe Cohet in those fields.

"Philippe has been a privileged player from the manufacturing field. He has built a vast network within the industry, comes from an engineering background and has held senior management positions in tower crane manufacturing and sales.

"Philippe will assist Arcomet's existing executive committee in capturing and developing new business opportunities in leveraging Arcomet's position as a world leader in tower crane rental, service and sales as well as co-managing the group with a special focus on France."