3M Announces Leadership Transformation; Hires Outsider as New Chief as Michael Roman Steps Down

3M Company has appointed a new chief executive officer, replacing Mike Roman. The company announced a leadership transformation, with William Brown joining the organization to replace the outgoing chief.

Issue About Age of Retirement

As per Star Tribune, Roman will remain the company's board chairman during the transition period. He will officially leave 3M sometime this year while Brown takes over the office on May 1.

It was revealed that he has to vacate his post due to the mandatory retirement age 65. Then again, 3M reportedly said on Tuesday, March 12, that its board put aside the mandatory retirement age for Roman and his successor, William Brown, who is taking the CEO role at the age of 61.

Brown’s Background Prior to 3M CEO Appointment

Before joining 3M, the newly appointed CEO worked as chief executive officer of L3Harris Technologies, where he also served as its board chairman. He also worked at Harris Corp. before it merged with L3Harris and was the firm’s chairman, president, and CEO. He graduated from Villanova University in Pennsylvania with bachelor's and master's degrees in mechanical engineering.

"Bill's strong track record as a CEO for a global technology company makes him the right leader for 3M," outgoing chief executive, Mike Roman, said in a press release. "He brings a wealth of experience in strategic leadership, innovation, and operational excellence to 3M. I look forward to working with him to build on our momentum in my new role as executive chairman."

Brown also expressed his excitement about the new opportunity to lead 3M, a worldwide iconic company. "The company has made significant positive changes under Mike's leadership, and I am looking forward to building on that progress as CEO as 3M continues to deliver for its customers, shareholders, employees, and communities around the globe," he said.

Photo by: 3M Media Gallery