The Propane Education & Research Council has hired Gavin Hale to serve as vice president in charge of business development.

In this role, according to a PERC news release, Hale will help grow awareness of propane technologies across all industries and applications, including medium-duty vehicles and school buses.

“Gavin is a proven leader with a wealth of experience in new product development, a robust understanding of engine markets, and expertise in complete powertrain integration,” said PERC President and CEO Tucker Perkins. “We are excited to have him on board to help seize the opportunities ahead for our industry.”

Hale arrives at PERC from Deutz Corporation, where he served as director of new power system business development and market and technology development. In this dual role, he developed and executed a five-year, $400-million business growth strategy, and led an international team in developing Deutz’s first compact propane spark ignited engine. Prior to his time at Deutz, Hale worked for Power Solutions International (PSI) as their vice president of sales. Before PSI, he was manager for new business development at Caterpillar Machine Engines.

A native of the United Kingdom, Hale has a degree in automotive engineering from Accrington and Rossendale College, Nelson and Colne Technical College, located in Nelson, Lancashire, England. He holds a Six Sigma Black Belt, as well as numerous vocational and business certifications.

At PERC, Hale will bring his knowledge and experience to bear leading business development efforts and directing the development of renewable fuel strategies. Hale will start his career at PERC working from his home in Monroe, Ga.