Biography

Franklin Cardenas joined Kennametal in 2020 as Vice President of Kennametal Inc. and President of the Company’s Infrastructure segment.

Franklin has global responsibility for the Infrastructure segment. In this role he is accountable for advancing the business strategy, driving operational excellence and delivering profitable growth in the advanced materials, earth cutting tools, engineered components, additive manufacturing and ceramics businesses within the segment.

Franklin spent nearly 25 years with Donaldson Company, Inc., starting with the company in Mexico in 1995. He has deep global experience having held various business and general management roles, with responsibility for commercial and operations, during his time with the company. Franklin held management positions covering Mexican and Latin American markets prior to being named Managing Director, Latin America in 2005 and Vice President, Global Engine Aftermarket, in 2010. In his most recent role, he was the Vice President of Asia Pacific, and was responsible for accelerating profitable growth, driving market share and improving productivity.

Franklin earned a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial and systems engineering and a Master of Business Administration from Tec de Monterrey in Mexico City.