President of Regal Ware’s SynergyOps Joseph Swanson to Retire After 40 Years; David Duecker Named Successor

Milwaukee, Wisconsin (January 30, 2024) – Regal Ware®, a global leader in premium kitchen products, announces the retirement of Joseph Swanson from his position as Executive Vice President of Regal Ware and President of SynergyOps® effective March 31, 2024, after four decades of service to the organization. 

As part of a planned leadership succession, the executive committee initiated a comprehensive internal and external search process to identify a successor and is proud to appoint David Duecker as President of SynergyOps effective December 18, 2023. 

Building on over a century of excellence, Regal Ware stands as a paragon of American manufacturing, crafting quality cookware that’s become a staple in homes globally. The creation of its manufacturing division, SynergyOps, marks a renewed commitment to this enduring legacy, ensuring that the treasured tradition of quality and craftsmanship continues to thrive. 

“Joe’s historic tenure has been instrumental in establishing a strong foundation for Regal Ware and SynergyOps through his strategic leadership direction and unwavering focus on operational excellence,” states Ryan Reigle,  Chairman and CEO of Regal Ware. “Joe’s genuine passion for people and for his Regal Ware family has made him a tremendous mentor, and he will leave a legacy of driven, hard-working teams who care about each other and the customers and communities they serve.” 

A Regal Ware J.O. Reigle Scholarship recipient of the Kewaskum High School graduating class of 1979, Joe began his career with Regal Ware in 1983 as a management trainee while obtaining his master’s degree from Cardinal Stritch University. In 1992, he assumed the roles of Vice President and General Manager of Regal Ware, and promoted to Senior Vice President of Operation in 2005, prior to assuming his current responsibilities in July 2021 as President of SynergyOps. Joe has played an integral role on Regal Ware’s Executive Committee by providing oversight for shaping the organization’s strategic vision. He is a pillar in the community having served in many service organizations in the West Bend and Washington County area, in which he currently serves as on the Board of the Kettle Moraine YMCA and on the Board of the Upper Midwest Alliance of YMCAs. 

“I am humbled to have been a part of a team that each and every day impacts the lives of people and families across the globe and in our community,” shares Joe Swanson. “It has been an incredible journey these past 40 years working alongside some of the most talented people in the industry and I am proud of what we have achieved together. I congratulate Dave on his appointment, and I am highly confident that under his leadership, SynergyOps and the entire Regal Ware organization will prosper long into the future.” 

Dave Duecker, former CEO of Denago Electric Bikes and a prominent leader within the consumer durable goods sector, steps into this role with a track record of fostering substantial growth and consistently delivering results. His leadership ethos is deeply rooted in a commitment to manufacturing and pushing the boundaries of innovation. Throughout his career with household names like Schwinn and Mongoose Bicycles, Fiskars, and Milwaukee Electric Tool, Dave has been the architect behind transformative strategies that have reinvigorated brands, catalyzed double-digit increases in sales, and yielded marked improvements in profitability. 

“First and foremost, I want to thank and recognize Joe for his contributions to the organization during his tenure and the foundation he has put in place,” expresses Dave Duecker. “Joining the Regal Ware family is a privilege, and the organization has a legacy of maintaining strong relationships with our customers. I look forward to building on the positive momentum established by Joe and continuing to drive the business forward through leveraging new OEM strategic partnerships.” 

Regal Ware eagerly anticipates the wealth of knowledge, direction, and strategic focus that Dave will bring to the SynergyOps division. His stewardship is expected to be a cornerstone of Regal Ware’s strategy to fortify its position as a leader in the competitive arena of cookware manufacturing. 

“Dave’s arrival as President of SynergyOps is a coup for our organization and his formidable experience and strategic acumen are in lockstep with our goals,” states Ryan. “We’re poised for an era of accelerated growth and innovation, and his insight will be instrumental in charting the course forward. We look forward to a smooth transition and continued success under Dave’s leadership.” 

Until Joe’s retirement date, he will continue to serve on Regal Ware’s executive committee and as President Emeritus of SynergyOps to work side-by-side with Dave over the next several months to ensure a smooth transition.