Kadant implemented an executive succession plan, appointing Michael Colwell as its next chief executive officer, effective Jan. 2.

Before stepping into the company's top role, Colwell will assume the positions of president and chief operating officer next month.

Colwell has been a senior vice president of the company since December 2024, responsible for its industrial processing business. He previously held various roles of increasing responsibility at Kadant, the company said Thursday.

He will succeed Jeffrey Powell, who will continue to as president through Sept. 30, and as chief executive through Jan. 2, at which point he will transition to become executive chairman of the board.

As executive chairman, Powell will continue to participate in strategic planning and acquisition activities, consult with management on operational matters, and be responsible for corporate governance matters, the company said. He is expected to continue as a director and chairman of the board in a non-executive role after his retirement on Jan. 1, 2028.

The company said it structured its succession plan in such a way as to retain Powell's services for one year following the appointment of his successor as CEO.