KCS promotes Ottensmeyer to president

Kansas City Southern today announced it appointed Patrick Ottensmeyer president, effective March 1, as part of a succession planning process.

He will continue to report to David Starling, who remains chief executive officer. Ottensmeyer currently serves as executive vice president and chief marketing officer, and has more than 15 years of rail industry experience.

In his new role, Ottensmeyer will continue to be responsible for sales and marketing, and gain additional responsibilities for operations, including transportation, engineering, mechanical, network operations, operations support and information technology.

He joined KCS in May 2006 as EVP and chief financial officer. Ottensmeyer previously served BNSF Railway Co. as VP of finance and treasurer. His career outside of the rail industry included stints as CFO of Ikano Therapeutics Inc., and corporate VP and treasurer of Dade-Behring Holdings Inc. Ottensmeyer also held various senior-level positions at National Bank of Detroit, Security Pacific National Bank and Bank of America.

"I am excited about Pat’s appointment as president of our company," said Starling in a press release. "He has served as the company’s chief financial officer and, most recently, its chief marketing officer, which has prepared him for his new role."