Shippenville, Pa. — The Board of Directors of Clarion Industries announced today the appointment of Michael Babula to the position of President and CEO. Michael replaces Tony Sturrus as part of a management succession plan developed and formally adopted in 2011.
Former president and CEO Tony Sturrus shared the following comment: “Michael and I have been colleagues and friends for a number of years and his appointment today is the culmination of our efforts to prepare the company for its next stage of development and success. His proven record of accomplishment and outstanding personal and leadership qualities will serve the company, its customers, and fellow employees well.”
Mr. Babula, an investor in Clarion Industries, has held the position of Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Clarion Industries since April of 2009, when Clarion was restructured under new ownership consisting of Aconcagua Holdings and the Fairbanks Family Fund. Under Mr. Babula’s leadership, Clarion’s market presence has increased exponentially, gaining accounts with major home improvement retailers such as Lowe’s, The Home Depot and Lumber Liquidators. Prior to joining Clarion Industries, Mr. Babula was the North American President and CEO for Franke from 2005 to 2008. He also served as Vice President of Sales at Baldwin Hardware Corporation where he started his career and progressed through the ownership of Masco Corporation and Black and Decker Corporation.
Mr. Sturrus will assist Mike during the planned transition period while completing work on some key strategic initiatives. Mr. Sturrus commented, “Mike is well prepared to lead the company and I anticipate that the transition will be seamless and relatively short in duration. With Mike’s assumption of Clarion’s leadership position, I will be permitted to focus on my other business and personal interests with the confidence and knowledge that my continuing financial investment in Clarion is in very capable and trusting hands.”