Nicki Vaca has been promoted to the position of Business Optimization Manager for HURST Jaws of Life, a unit of IDEX Fire & Safety, drawing on Vaca’s two decades of experience and senior leadership with the industry’s leading global manufacturer of rescue tools.

Most recently Manager of Operations at HURST Jaws of Life’s Shelby, N.C., headquarters, Vaca has held roles in operations, IT, facilities and planning, and customer care during her 20-year tenure with HURST. Her holistic view of the company, from operations to end-user experiences, provides Vaca with a unique perspective on the business and its commitment to quality and innovation.

“Nicki’s experience and knowledge of the HURST business and processes, coupled with her strong project management skills, will be of benefit to the business in her new role,” said Bill Simmons, president, IDEX Fire Suppression Group & North American Fire & Safety, parent company to HURST Jaws of Life.

In the new position, Vaca will assume ownership of the company’s Continuous Improvement projects, contributing to HURST Jaws of Life’s unceasing commitment to ensure it provides innovative and exceptional extrication solutions to first responders. Vaca also will oversee IT/Business systems and project funnels as well as continue to support major facilities projects.