Crane Co. announced that Max H. Mitchell was appointed as chief executive officer of the company, effective at the close of business on January 31, 2013. He was also elected to the board of directors.

Mr. Mitchell, 50, joined the company in 2004 as Vice President of Operational Excellence, was promoted to President of Fluid Handling in 2005, became Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer in May 2011, and was appointed President of Crane Co. in January 2013. Prior to Crane, Mr. Mitchell had successive management roles with Pentair, Danaher and Ford Motor Company.

He succeeds Eric C. Fast, who retired from the company at close of business January 31, 2014. Mr. Fast joined the company in 1999 as President and Chief Operating Officer and was promoted to Chief Executive Officer in January 2001.