Twin Disc Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Twin Disc has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, human resources, and financial management.

Focused on engineering excellence for heavy-duty machinery, Twin Disc delivers robust power transmission solutions that drive performance across global marine and industrial sectors while maintaining a commitment to operational reliability.

Leadership Roles at Twin Disc

  • Chief Executive Officer - John Batten
  • Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer & Secretary - Jeffrey Knutson
  • President & Chief Operating Officer - James Feiertag
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Brian Plemel
  • John Batten - Chief Executive Officer

    John Batten, the Chief Executive Officer at Twin Disc, directs the overarching corporate strategy and long-term vision for power transmission manufacturing. Batten oversees the alignment of engineering initiatives with global market demands in the marine and industrial sectors. By prioritizing durability and performance, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that product development cycles meet the rigorous standards required for heavy-duty operations. John Batten maintains close collaboration with the Board to drive sustainable growth and shareholder value. This leadership role involves navigating complex international markets to expand the footprint of propulsion systems and torque converters. Through a focus on operational efficiency, the Chief Executive Officer optimizes the manufacturing output across all facilities. Batten fosters a culture of innovation that keeps the company at the forefront of industrial machinery technology. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer secures the competitive position of the organization within the global energy and commercial marine landscapes.
    John Batten

    Jeffrey Knutson - Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer & Secretary

    Jeffrey Knutson, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer & Secretary at Twin Disc, manages the financial health and fiscal integrity of the organization. Knutson directs capital allocation, financial reporting, and treasury operations to support the manufacturing of power transmission equipment. Jeffrey Knutson oversees the development of budgets and forecasts that enable the company to invest in research and development for propulsion systems. This leadership role involves maintaining transparent communication with investors and regulatory bodies regarding the financial performance of the business. By implementing robust internal controls, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer & Secretary mitigates financial risk and ensures compliance with global accounting standards. Knutson coordinates with the executive team to evaluate potential acquisitions and strategic investments that enhance market reach. Through meticulous financial planning, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer & Secretary provides the necessary resources to sustain the company's commitment to performance and reliability in the industrial machinery sector.

    James Feiertag - President & Chief Operating Officer

    James Feiertag, the President & Chief Operating Officer at Twin Disc, manages the daily execution of manufacturing processes and supply chain logistics. Feiertag drives the operational efficiency of marine transmission and control system production lines. Overseeing the integration of advanced engineering into scalable manufacturing workflows, the President & Chief Operating Officer ensures consistent product quality across all regional operations. James Feiertag coordinates with department heads to streamline production schedules and reduce lead times for industrial clients. This leadership role involves monitoring performance metrics to identify opportunities for process improvement and cost reduction. By managing the complexities of global distribution, the President & Chief Operating Officer supports the delivery of reliable power transmission equipment to diverse markets. Feiertag maintains a rigorous focus on safety and compliance standards within all manufacturing environments. Through disciplined oversight, the President & Chief Operating Officer sustains the high performance of the company's core product portfolio.
    James Feiertag

    Brian Plemel - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Brian Plemel, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Twin Disc, architects the talent acquisition and organizational development strategies necessary for a global manufacturing workforce. Plemel directs initiatives focused on employee engagement, leadership training, and performance management to support the company's engineering-centric culture. Brian Plemel oversees the implementation of human capital policies that align with the technical requirements of the marine and industrial sectors. This leadership role involves fostering a diverse and skilled workforce capable of maintaining the high standards of durability and reliability associated with the brand. By managing compensation structures and benefits programs, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the retention of top-tier engineering and manufacturing talent. Plemel collaborates with executive leadership to cultivate a workplace environment that promotes safety, innovation, and operational excellence. Through strategic workforce planning, the Chief Human Resources Officer supports the long-term growth objectives of the organization across all international operations.
    Brian Plemel

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Twin Disc Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Twin Disc?
    Twin Disc is led by John Batten (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Jeffrey Knutson (Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer & Secretary) and James Feiertag (President & Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Twin Disc’s executive team?
    The executive team of Twin Disc includes leaders such as John Batten (Chief Executive Officer), Jeffrey Knutson (Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer & Secretary), James Feiertag (President & Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Twin Disc have?
    Twin Disc has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Twin Disc’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Twin Disc includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer & Secretary, President & Chief Operating Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer.