Mohawk Industries Announces Leadership Succession
Mohawk Industries announced the planned retirement of President and COO Chris Wellborn, effective February 1, 2025, with Paul De Cock set to succeed him. Ken Walma will join the company to lead the Flooring North America segment.
Calhoun, Georgia – Mohawk Industries, a global flooring manufacturer, announced changes in its top leadership on November 6, 2024. Chris Wellborn, currently President and Chief Operating Officer, will retire from his executive role on February 1, 2025. He will be succeeded by Paul De Cock.
Concurrently, the company announced that Ken Walma will join Mohawk Industries and assume the role of President of the Flooring North America Segment, taking over from De Cock on February 1, 2025. Following his retirement from operational duties, Wellborn will transition to a role as Vice Chair of Mohawk's Board of Directors, where he will assist with the leadership transition.
Mohawk Chair and CEO Jeff Lorberbaum stated that the succession plan aims to blend institutional knowledge with fresh perspectives. He credited Wellborn with growing the company's ceramic business into the world's largest. Lorberbaum highlighted De Cock's extensive experience in the European and U.S. flooring industries, emphasizing his six-year tenure leading the Flooring North America business as preparation for his new role.
Walma's appointment is based on his track record of leading manufacturing organizations and delivering profitable growth. His previous experience includes leadership positions at Madison Air, Signify, Eaton Corporation, and Lutron Electronics. The company expressed confidence that his collaborative leadership style will be an asset to the executive team.