H.B. Fuller Company has announced that Celeste Mastin, executive vice president and chief operating officer, will succeed Jim Owens as H.B. Fuller’s president and chief executive officer, effective 4 December 2022. Upon assuming the role, Mastin will also join the company’s board of directors, replacing Owens, who will be retiring.

“It has been a privilege to serve as CEO of H.B. Fuller, and I am very proud of all that we have accomplished as a team over the last 12 years,” said Jim Owens, president and CEO. “With a proven value-creation strategy, an experienced leadership team in place, and positive momentum, this is the opportune time to transition the company’s leadership.”

Owens added, “Celeste is an outstanding leader and ideal fit with H.B. Fuller’s entrepreneurial, customer-focused, global culture. She brings strategic insights, continuity of leadership, and a strong record of delivering exceptional results. I am confident the Company will excel and reach new levels of financial and operational performance under her leadership.”

“I would like to thank Jim and the Board for the opportunity to lead this fantastic company and the many exceptional team members who work for H.B. Fuller,” said Mastin. “H.B. Fuller has a rich history of innovating to create unique products to meet our customers’ most-challenging needs and has become the world’s leading pure-play adhesives company. We have a winning strategy, tremendous talent and leadership, and the entrepreneurial culture that will continue this legacy. I believe strongly in our strategy and vision and I will remain focused on expanding on these strengths to accelerate organic growth and enhance the company’s margin profile to achieve our strategic goals and reach our full potential.”