South Carolina 500 | 

Jonathan Dawley

Organization
KION North America
Title
President & CEO

Jonathan Dawley leads KION North America as president and CEO, bringing a leadership philosophy centered on people and execution. Dawley earned his undergraduate degree in business administration from Baker College and completed MBA coursework at East Carolina University and University of Michigan Flint. He furthered his executive education through a global program at INSEAD in Fountainebleau, France.

Dawley’s approach to leadership reflects advice that has guided his career. “Keep the main thing, the main thing,” Dawley said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus on key priorities as organizations grow in complexity.

Under his leadership, KION North America recently launched its first internal combustion engine torque converter-based lift truck with a 2.5-3.5 ton capacity rating, manufactured in Summerville. Dawley serves on multiple boards including the South Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership, South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance, German American Chamber of Commerce and Industrial Truck Association.

He was recognized as South Carolina Innovator of the Year in 2022. Outside work, Dawley pursues his passion for racing, including track racing motorcycles and formal superbike training.

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The South Carolina 500 is the definitive guide to the most influential people driving South Carolina economy. Spanning industries from healthcare and finance to construction, law, and education, this statewide list brings together top leaders recognized for their impact, innovation, and leadership across sectors.

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