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Black Bros. Co., a sixth-generation, family-owned manufacturer of roll coating and laminating equipment, has announced a series of executive leadership changes as part of its long-term succession strategy.
Effective Sept. 1, Jeff Simonton will assume the role of president and chief executive officer, succeeding Matthew B. Carroll, who will transition from CEO while continuing to serve as chairman of the board.
Carroll joined Black Bros. in 1978 and became CEO in 1995, leading the company through decades of growth, expanded product offerings and continued investment in engineering and manufacturing. In his new role, he will remain actively involved in the company's strategic direction and support its executive leadership team.
Simonton joined Black Bros. in 1999 and has held several leadership positions during his tenure, including vice president of finance, chief financial officer and chief operating officer. Most recently, he served as president and chief operating officer, overseeing the company's day-to-day operations.
The company also announced the promotion of Evan Carroll to executive vice president. A sixth-generation member of the Black family, Carroll joined the company in 2017 and has worked in manufacturing, engineering, sales and production. In his expanded role, he will continue taking on broader operational and leadership responsibilities.
In addition, Megan Kneebone, chief financial officer, has been named chief financial officer and chief human relations officer, adding oversight of the company's human resources functions to her existing financial leadership responsibilities.
"This transition reflects our commitment to long-term leadership continuity while building on the strong foundation that has defined Black Bros. Co. for generations," Matt Carroll said.
Founded in 1882, Black Bros. manufactures roll coating, laminating and finishing equipment used throughout the woodworking, composite panel, building products and industrial manufacturing sectors. The company is headquartered in Mendota, Illinois, and serves customers worldwide.
For manufacturers across the surface and panel industry, Black Bros. remains a longtime supplier of coating, laminating and material processing equipment used in the production of decorative panels, engineered wood products, composites and other value-added building materials. The leadership transition comes as manufacturers continue investing in automation, process improvements and advanced finishing technologies.
