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Black Bros. has named Aaron Perryman as its new Director of Manufacturing, effective May 18, while also announcing the upcoming retirement of longtime Plant Superintendent Mike DeLong after more than 37 years with the company.
In his new role, Perryman will oversee all manufacturing operations for the company, supporting operational performance and customer service across Black Bros.’ global markets.
Perryman brings more than 20 years of experience with Black Bros., where he has held a range of technical and manufacturing positions including Mechanical Assembler, Electrical Assembler and Electrical Engineer. His hands-on experience throughout the organization has provided deep familiarity with Black Bros. equipment, manufacturing operations and customer applications.
“I’m looking forward to getting back down in the shop and working with the guys,” said Perryman, who added he will continue assisting with electrical prints and programming when needed. “I’ve been there, done that. And I think that carries a lot of weight on the shop floor — so the transition will be fluid. Quality machinery and pride in our work will continue to be the standard.”
During his career with Black Bros., Perryman has contributed to several operational and engineering initiatives, including helping the company secure Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Listing certification for its control panels. He also brings extensive field experience working directly with Black Bros. equipment and customer applications.
“Aaron’s broad technical knowledge, manufacturing expertise, and understanding of our customers make him exceptionally well suited for this position,” said Jeff Simonton, COO. “His ability to connect Manufacturing, Engineering, Sales, and Customer Support will continue to strengthen our operations and enhance the value we provide to customers.”
The company also announced the retirement of Mike DeLong, effective June 26, following a career that spanned nearly four decades.
Throughout his tenure, DeLong played a major role in advancing manufacturing operations and production efficiency at Black Bros. He helped develop and organize manufacturing scheduling and routing functions within the company’s ERP system and became widely recognized for his expertise in roll manufacturing. He also provided leadership in inventory management and operational planning.
“It’s been a good run,” said DeLong. “I’ve been all around the company starting in the lab, then moving to production, stock room, assembly, machine shop and (eventually) supervisor. But rolls have been my thing since I picked that up, and now everyone just kind of comes to me for roll numbers and roll information.”
DeLong said watching Black Bros. grow from a single small factory building into a large multi-faceted manufacturing operation was one of the highlights of his career.
“Lots of good people. Still today, but the old-timers knew a lot and had a different mentality. Their work ethic — put your head down and get ’er done — was something I learned a lot from. We all worked together and nobody was out for themselves, and that is something I hope to see Black Bros. carry into the future.”
“Mike’s contributions over nearly four decades have been extraordinary,” said Simonton. “His knowledge, leadership, and commitment to operational excellence have had a lasting impact on our company and our people.”
Black Bros. thanked DeLong for his years of service and wished him a happy retirement.
