Hand tool manufacturer C.H. Hanson has announced a series of executive changes that signify a shift in strategic direction and reinforce the commitment to family leadership that has been a hallmark of the company throughout its 147-year history.
Former president Craig Hanson has been named new chief executive officer, while former executive vice president Phil Hanson has been elected by the company's board of directors to serve as its president.
"These changes should reinforce to our loyal customers everywhere that the commitment and family values that have driven our company for nearly 150 years will continue today and into the future," Craig Hanson said. "My brother is exceptionally well-qualified for his new position and has an aggressive strategy to grow this business in a way that we have not done before. I will remain deeply involved in the business and will provide ongoing overall direction as we build upon everything that has made us who we are today. C.H. Hanson and all it stands for is engrained in our DNA. We're excited and humbled by the opportunity to continue to uphold the reputation of the company that bears our family name."
Manufacturing and distribution specialist Bill Loebbaka has been named the company's new chief operating officer, replacing Bob Hudson, who retired effective June 28.
Loebbaka brings more than 20 years of manufacturing and distribution experience, having managed consumer and industrial companies serving large retail and industrial customers throughout the world. He is a graduate of DePaul University and Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management. And although he's a new employee of the company, he's not new to the "Hanson way." He has been a friend and business adviser to the Hanson family for over 15 years.
"He's a former consultant of ours, he knows exactly what we are about, how we work, and what our customers have come to expect from us," Phil Hanson said. "This is a perfect fit."
Hudson is ensuring additional continuity, staying on as a contracted consultant and focusing on Hanson's growing international sales efforts.
"Anytime there are changes at the top levels of a company, there can be questions about what it's all going to mean," Craig Hanson said. "We hope our customers and partners see these changes for what they are – a reaffirmation of the commitment to exceptional products and personal service that have defined C.H. Hanson for five generations. We're excited about what the future holds."
