Suresh Krishna

Suresh Krishna is a visionary CEO best known for leading global business transformation by harnessing innovation and digital-first strategies that drive competitive advantage. Throughout his 30-year career, Suresh has inspired “breakthrough” thinking aimed at solving complex business problems and delivery of increased market share and stakeholder value. A strategic thinker with an operator’s mindset, Suresh develops next-generation leaders and leverages his expertise in manufacturing, supply chain, M&A, and P&L management to achieve long-term, sustainable growth. He has held key leadership roles in diverse consumer durable and industrial companies and has lived and worked in multiple geographies (Asia, Middle East, Europe, LATAM, U.S., and North America).

Most recently, as President and CEO at Northern Tool and Equipment (NTE), a $1.4B retailer and manufacturer of professional- grade tools and equipment, Suresh led a bold business restructuring and culture transformation and repositioned the brand. He divested “non core” leisure businesses and invested in critical strategic projects for the core retail business, relating to digital transformation, retail store growth, factory, and DC automation. He also invigorated a new product pipeline by doubling down on private label products. He also shifted the sales mix to new higher margin businesses. Since 2019 revenues increased by over 25%. In 2023, NTE was ranked by Forbes as one of the Best Midsize Employers in the U.S., and Bloomberg Businessweek ranked NTE as one of the best online shops for tools and supplies in 2021 and 2022.

Previously, as Chief Operations Officer at Sleep Number (NASDAQ: SNBR) a $1.8B retailer and manufacturer of premium mattresses, Suresh transformed the business model from “make to stock” to “make to order” freeing cash for growth initiatives. This also resulted in a 200+ bp margin expansion, increased inventory turns, and higher Net promote scores.

Earlier, as VP, EMEA at Polaris (NYSE: PII), a $8B Fortune 500 manufacturer of power sports products, Suresh rapidly expanded business in the Middle East and South Africa and established manufacturing operations and R&D capability in the region. As VP, Global Operations & Integration, he delivered a global strategy that supported local market manufacturing and delivered over 300 bp of gross margin expansion.

An experienced governance leader, Suresh served on the Northern Tool and Equipment board where he was an independent director before being tapped to assume the role of CEO. He serves on the global advisory board of Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, the board of Advisors at the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities. He served on the board of the National Retail Federation, and on the board of the Minnesota Business Partnership where he was on the Education Committee.

Suresh incorporates everyday sports analogies into his leadership style; he develops a talent academy and high-performing teams with bold goals that deliver “good to the company and the community.” He has insatiable curiosity and willingness to learn and is passionate about helping individuals and teams achieve personal and business goals they may not have thought possible. A recognized industry thought leader, Suresh is a frequent speaker on culture transformation, operating excellence and innovation leadership at industry forums and business schools.

Suresh holds an MBA from Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and a BS in Mechanical Engineering from the National Institute of Technology in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India.