April, 21 2025, Cambridge, OH—Southeastern Equipment Company proudly announces the promotion of D. Thor Hess, JD, to President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Over the past 10 years, Thor has served as General Counsel, leading initiatives that include a revitalized sales structure, a holistic brand refresh, IT infrastructure upgrades, and newly designed hiring, retention, and accountability programs.

“It’s a tremendous honor to lead this talented team into Southeastern Equipment’s next chapter,” said Thor. “We have a bright future ahead, and I’ll continue exploring new ways to meet our customers’ challenges with innovation and a pure service mindset.”

William L. Baker (Bill) founded Southeastern Equipment Company in 1957 and began selling motor grader blades to townships and counties for Shunk Equipment Company. As his company grew, Bill placed the utmost importance on establishing trust and lasting relationships with his customers – qualities that helped establish Southeastern’s foundation in small and large townships. Today, Southeastern Equipment employs 260 people and proudly serves 20+ locations in Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, and West Virginia. With Thor assuming the role of President, he plans to stay true to the customer-focused philosophy Bill established to fit all of Southeastern’s customer equipment needs.

A cornerstone of Thor’s realistic and bold approach to business lies in his ability to create and drive a nimble organization driven by practical processes and workflow. He is leveraging this strength by implementing EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) within the company to reimagine organizational efficiencies and integrated solutions, and to define Southeastern’s future growth and stability further. 

Thor is deeply committed to both the equipment industry and the broader community. He serves as Board Chairperson for the Case Construction Dealer Advisory Board and previously served as Regional Director for the Associated Equipment Distributors. A strong advocate for equity—particularly for children and adolescents—he also sits on the board of Flying Horse Farms and supports initiatives such as the New Albany Symphony Orchestra Sensory Concerts.

A northeast Ohio native, Thor received his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Middle Tennessee State University before completing his Juris Doctor at The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law. He has also completed his CPA studies.  

Thor continues to thank Southeastern Equipment’s valued customers and friends for being such a strong part of the Southeastern Equipment family. “We’re grateful for your continued support and loyalty,” said Thor. “Thank you for trusting us to help you get the job done—and for the incredible work you do building and maintaining the communities we all rely on.”

Southeastern Equipment is one of the largest privately owned Case dealers in the Midwest and the largest Kobelco dealer in the United States, staying true to a customer-focused philosophy by offering more than 30 lines of equipment to meet all equipment needs, along with a dedicated parts and service staff driven to take care of customers. To get a quote, schedule service, or learn more about Southeastern Equipment Company, call 800-798-5438 or visit www.southeasternequip.com. You can also shop thousands of online parts at southeasternparts.com.