FARGO, N.D., May 27, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Otter Tail Corporation (Nasdaq:OTTR) has hired Michael J. Olsen to be Vice President, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs. Olsen, a senior corporate communications consultant and president of Michael J. Olsen Communications since 2004, will begin his duties on June 8.
In this newly created position Olsen will be accountable for developing and implementing Otter Tail Corporation's comprehensive communication strategies and public affairs program, providing communications leadership and support for all Otter Tail businesses, and supporting the corporation's investor relations function, including producing its annual report. He will report to CEO and president John Erickson.
"Michael's vast experience as a communications professional will be important as Otter Tail Corporation advances its vision, mission, and business objectives with its internal and external stakeholders," said Erickson. "We're fortunate to have found an individual with a proven track record in managing key communications issues and outside resources. I'm glad to welcome him as an employee."
Olsen has more than 25 years of experience spanning the corporate, public, and nonprofit sectors including senior-level work with Microsoft Business Solutions, Fargo; Great Plains Software, Fargo; Himle Horner, Incorporated, Minneapolis; National Car Rental, Minneapolis; as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Transportation for Public Affairs, Washington, DC; as Press Secretary to Senator Mark Andrews (R-ND); Prairie Public Television, Fargo; and KXJB TV, Fargo. Olsen earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in speech and drama from North Dakota State University, Fargo.
"I'm fortunate to be joining a corporation with such a strong foundation and clear vision for the future," said Olsen. "Good communications is a two-way street and a key part of any successful business. I look forward to learning from the various teams at the corporation's operating companies and sharing my knowledge in return."
About The Corporation: Otter Tail Corporation has interests in diversified operations that include an electric utility, manufacturing, health services, food ingredient processing, and infrastructure businesses, which include plastics, construction, and transportation. Otter Tail Corporation stock trades on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol OTTR. The latest investor and corporate information is available at www.ottertail.com. Corporate offices are located in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, and Fargo, North Dakota.
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