Kadant Names Michael Colwell as CEO in Leadership Succession Plan

Kadant Inc. has initiated a leadership transition, naming current executive Michael C. Colwell as its next president and chief executive officer to succeed Jeffrey L. Powell. The move, announced Wednesday, follows a structured plan for the company's top management as it prepares for a shift in governance.

"I am confident the succession plan announced today provides for continuity of leadership and maintains a strong team of leaders who can continue to build on Kadant’s successes," said Jeffrey L. Powell, president and chief executive officer of Kadant.

The Transition Timeline

The leadership change will occur in two phases over the coming months:

• October 1, 2026: Michael C. Colwell will assume the roles of president and chief operating officer.
• January 2, 2027: Colwell will be promoted to president and chief executive officer. On this same date, Jeffrey L. Powell will shift to the role of executive chairman.

As part of this restructuring, current chairman Jonathan W. Painter will step down from the board of directors on January 2, 2027. Powell is expected to remain in his executive chairman capacity for one year before transitioning to a non-executive chairman role upon his retirement on January 1, 2028.

"I am honored to be appointed president and chief executive officer of Kadant at such an important time for our Company. Having had the opportunity to work side-by-side with Jeff over many years at Kadant, I have developed a deep appreciation for the unique and leading position Kadant has established around the world," said Michael C. Colwell, incoming CEO.

Market Performance Context

The announcement follows a period of market volatility for the industrial machinery firm. Shares of Kadant Inc. (KAI) closed at $266.30 on September 11, 2026, marking a decline of 6.96% from the previous trading session.

What Is at Stake

For investors and stakeholders, the transition represents a test of continuity for the company's operational strategy. By staggering the promotion of Colwell to COO before he assumes the CEO title, the board is attempting to mitigate the risks associated with executive turnover. The timeline for Powell’s eventual departure as non-executive chairman is intended to ensure that the company's strategic direction remains stable through the end of 2027.