Menasha Corp. names new CEO

Menasha Corp. announced today it has appointed James Kotek its new president and chief executive officer.

Kotek, 49, most recently served as president of ORBIS Corp., Menasha Corp.’s second largest operating division. He had been in that post since 2004.

Kotek also will join the company’s board of directors.

“Jim Kotek’s record of business achievements is an excellent match with the challenges and goals of Menasha Corp.,” Donald C. Shepard, company board chairman said in a statement. “He is a talented leader whose commitment to superior operational performance and creating value for customers is unequaled.”

Kotek oversaw the two largest acquisitions in the company’s history – LINPAC Group Limited’s North American material handling business in December 2006 and Norseman Plastics Holdings Ltd. in October 2008.

“Both of these acquisitions helped diversify ORBIS’ product lines, strengthened innovative product design and development capabilities and enhance customer relationships,” Shepard said.

Kotek was one of three members appointed by Menasha Corp.’s board of directors to an executive management committee in May, following the retirement of its president and CEO, Arthur W. Huge.

The committee members assumed general responsibility for the company’s affairs. The other committee members were Michael Waite, president of Menasha Packaging and Thomas Rettler, senior vice president and chief financial officer.

Kotek said he is honored by the promotion.

“Despite the difficult economic times we have faced recently, Menasha Corp.’s competitive position is stronger than it has been for many years,” he said. “I look forward to implementing strategies that will provide a platform for continued growth and value for all of our stakeholders.”

Kotek has bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Notre Dame and a master’s degree in business administration from Marquette University. Kotek joined Oconomowoc-based ORBIS Corp. as controller in 1991 and has held successive positions with the company since that time.

Neenah-based Menasha Corp., a niche packaging, logistics and marketing services company, employs about 3,600 people across North America.

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