DOWAGIAC, MI – Mno-Bmadsen, the non-gaming investment enterprise of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians of Michigan and Indiana, has appointed Anthony E. Kramer Chief Operating Officer of its manufacturing portfolio, effective Aug. 31. Kramer brings more than two decades of manufacturing, commercial and executive leadership experience to the role.
The appointment follows Mno-Bmadsen’s acquisition last month of the remaining 46% ownership interest in Mno-DREK, LLC, making Mno-Bmadsen sole owner of the manufacturing holding company. Its businesses include Enmark Tool & Gage in Fraser, MI; Michiana Global Mold in Mishawaka, IN; and Walerko Tool & Engineering in Elkhart, IN. Kramer will provide strategic and operational leadership across the portfolio.
Prior to joining Mno-Bmadsen, Kramer served as VP of Commercial for Creative Liquid Coatings, where he led the company’s sales and commercial team and worked to develop new markets and business with original equipment manufacturers. He previously held executive leadership positions with Cascade Engineering and CK Technologies, including serving as President and Chief Operating Officer. His experience includes managing manufacturing facilities and customer relationships, supporting acquisitions and integrations, and launching new OEM programs.
“Tony brings a unique combination of manufacturing knowledge, commercial leadership, and experience growing businesses,” said Julio Martinez, CEO of Mno-Bmadsen. “As we look toward the next phase of our manufacturing portfolio, we need leaders who understand both the operational side of manufacturing and the opportunities available in the marketplace. Tony’s experience will help us build on the strong foundation that already exists while identifying new opportunities for growth.”
Kramer said his leadership approach begins with understanding the people within an organization.
“The biggest lesson that my career has taught me is that you have to be a servant leader,” said Kramer. “You have to understand the pulse of the organization; you have to understand the activities and the feelings of the individuals on the floor.”
As COO, Kramer will work with leadership and employees across Mno-Bmadsen’s manufacturing businesses on operations, customer relationships and potential new markets.
“Within my first year, I want to accomplish scaling up each one of the businesses under the Mno-Bmadsen manufacturing portfolio to make sure that we’re prepared for a future state and profitable growth,” said Kramer.
Mno-Bmadsen is also exploring potential participation in the U.S. Small Business Administration’s 8(a) Business Development Program, which could provide eligible companies with additional opportunities to compete for federal contracts.
“Mno-Bmadsen has taken a long-term approach to building our manufacturing business,” said Martinez. “Tony’s leadership is an important part of that next chapter. We are excited about what we can accomplish together and the opportunities this portfolio can create for the future.”
Launched in 2012, Mno-Bmadsen is a wholly owned instrumentality of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians of Michigan and Indiana, established to diversify the Tribe’s business interests and revenue streams. Its operating companies span professional services, construction, manufacturing, commercial real estate, retail and passive investments. Mno-Bmadsen also holds real estate investments, including mixed-use properties and a hotel.