Black Bros. Names Jeff Simonton President and CEO in Leadership Transition

Black Bros. Co. will appoint Jeff Simonton as President and Chief Executive Officer effective Sept. 1, as part of an executive leadership transition at the sixth-generation, family-owned manufacturer of roll coating and laminating equipment.

Matthew B. Carroll, currently Chairman of the Board and CEO, will step down from the chief executive role while remaining Chairman. Carroll joined the Mendota, Illinois-based company in 1978 and became CEO in 1995, succeeding his father, James S. Carroll.

During Carroll’s tenure, Black Bros. expanded into new markets and product lines while continuing its focus on manufacturing, engineering and customer service. The company said he will remain actively involved in strategic direction and in supporting the leadership team.

Simonton, who joined Black Bros. in 1999, will assume responsibility for the company’s day-to-day operations. He has held a series of senior positions, including Vice President of Finance, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer and, most recently, President and Chief Operating Officer.

The company also announced two additional executive appointments as part of the transition.

Evan Carroll has been promoted to Executive Vice President. A sixth-generation member of the Black family, Carroll joined Black Bros. in 2017 and has worked across shop operations, sales, production and engineering. In his new position, he will take on broader leadership responsibilities across the company.

Chief Financial Officer Megan Kneebone will add the role of Chief Human Relations Officer. Kneebone joined Black Bros. full-time in 2008 and has held several leadership positions, including Director of Accounting. She will continue to oversee the company’s financial operations while also leading its human resources functions.

“This transition reflects our commitment to long-term leadership continuity while building on the strong foundation that has defined Black Bros. Co. for generations,” Matt Carroll said.

The leadership changes come as Black Bros. prepares for the next stage of its development while maintaining family involvement in the business. The company has not announced changes to its ownership structure as part of the executive transition.

Founded in 1882, Black Bros. manufactures roll coating and laminating equipment for customers in a range of industries worldwide. The company is headquartered in Mendota, Illinois.