Kadant has confirmed that Michael C. Colwell will become President and Chief Operating Officer from October 1, 2026, before succeeding Jeffrey L. Powell as President and Chief Executive Officer on January 2, 2027.
Colwell, currently Senior Vice President with responsibility for Kadant’s Industrial Processing segment, has held several leadership positions within the company. He previously served as President of Kadant Carmanah Design and has worked closely with Powell for the past 13 years.
“I am honored to be appointed president and chief executive officer of Kadant at such an important time for our Company,” said Colwell. “I look forward to building on the momentum Jeff has created while continuing to drive growth and profitability throughout the business to deliver long-term value.”
Powell will become Executive Chairman of Kadant’s Board of Directors when Colwell assumes the CEO role, continuing to support strategic planning, acquisitions and operational matters. Current Chairman Jonathan W. Painter will retire from the board on January 2, 2027.
