CSG USA Welcomes New Leadership: Paul Lemke Takes the Helm

In a strategic move to strengthen its presence in the United States, Czechoslovak Group (CSG) has named Paul Lemke as the new Chief Executive Officer of CSG USA, the company's American arm based in Virginia. This appointment comes at a crucial time for CSG, following its recent agreement to acquire Vista Outdoor's Kinetic Group for approximately $1.91 billion. The deal, announced in November 2023, is still pending regulatory and stockholder approval.

Should the acquisition proceed as planned, Lemke will oversee an expanded portfolio that includes some of the most respected names in the ammunition industry. Brands like Federal, Remington, CCI, Speer, Estate Cartridge, Hevi-Shot, and Alliant Powder would join the CSG family, significantly boosting the company's market presence.

Lemke brings a wealth of experience to his new role, with nearly 30 years in both military service and the private sector. His background includes two decades in the U.S. Army, where he specialized in military diplomacy and security assistance, retiring with the rank of lieutenant colonel. This unique blend of military and industry expertise positions Lemke well to identify growth opportunities and forge strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, including U.S. Armed Forces, law enforcement agencies, and other government entities.

CSG USA has already made notable inroads in the American market. The company recently provided cutting-edge POLR-1 through-wall imaging systems to various U.S. institutions, including the Army, FBI, and police departments in Phoenix and San Antonio. Additionally, CSG facilitated the delivery of refurbished "Straight Flush" missile guidance radars to U.S. Armed Forces, showcasing its technological capabilities.

The U.S. division also acts as a liaison for CSG Group's American partners, including Fiocchi, a small-caliber ammunition manufacturer with a significant presence in Missouri and Arkansas, employing over 300 people.

David Stepan, CEO of CSG's Ammo+ division and a board member, expressed confidence in the new appointment, stating, "Paul brings significant experience and knowledge of the U.S. market and our industry and we are pleased to welcome him as CEO of CSG USA." Stepan emphasized the strategic importance of the U.S. market, adding, "The U.S. is an extremely important market for CSG, and we plan to significantly expand our presence here, including through our planned acquisition of Kinetic Group, which we are purchasing from Vista Outdoor."

Lemke shared his enthusiasm for the new role, saying, "I am thrilled to join CSG and look forward to helping drive our growth and relationships in the U.S., which is a strategically important market for the company." He outlined CSG's commitment to the U.S., stating, "CSG brings a long-term vision of contributing to the U.S. economy by creating jobs, serving our customers with world-class quality, and being responsible members of the communities in which we operate."

As CSG USA enters this new chapter under Lemke's leadership, the company appears poised to expand its footprint in the American market, leveraging its technological expertise and strategic acquisitions to become a major player in the defense and ammunition industries.