Rocket Lab Appoints Frank Klein as New COO to Lead Global Operations

Key Highlights:

  • Frank Klein appointed Rocket Lab COO, effective September 16, 2024.

  • Klein brings 30+ years of global manufacturing leadership in the automotive industry.

  • Responsible for scaling spacecraft and launch vehicle production to meet over a billion dollars in backlog orders.

  • Former roles include executive positions at Daimler AG, Magna Steyr AG, and Rivian Automotive.

Source (Business Wire)

Notable Quotes:

"Frank is an experienced and seasoned leader in manufacturing and global operations who will bring vision and a strong wealth of knowledge in lean manufacturing and scaling to Rocket Lab at a pivotal time in our evolution."

Sir Peter Beck, Founder and CEO at Rocket Lab

"I’m incredibly excited about Rocket Lab. This is an opportunity to leverage my deep experience and industry knowledge to cement efficient operations at the foundation of the Company’s scale and growth."

Frank Klein, Chief Operations Officer at Rocket Lab

Our Take:

The appointment of Frank Klein as Rocket Lab's new COO comes at a strategic moment in the company's trajectory. Klein’s extensive background in high-volume, global production, particularly in the automotive sector, aligns with Rocket Lab's goal to scale its manufacturing capabilities and meet growing demand. His expertise in operations management, gleaned from leading divisions at Mercedes-Benz and Rivian, will be critical as Rocket Lab intensifies its production of launch vehicles and spacecraft systems. This move reflects Rocket Lab’s ongoing commitment to innovation and operational excellence as it cements its position as a leader in the space industry.