Koppers, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Koppers Holdings, announced a transition plan that will occur throughout 2024 for key leadership roles. The plan will culminate in the retirement of James Healey, Vice President, Utility and Industrial Products (UIP), effective December 31, 2024, after a 40-year career with the company. Healey will serve as Special Assistant to the President and COO effective July 1, 2024, and remain actively involved in the UIP leadership transition for the remainder of the year.

Jason Bakk has been chosen to succeed Healey and will assume the role of Vice President, UIP, effective July 1, 2024. Bakk is currently Vice President, North American Carbon Materials and Chemicals (CMC), a position he has held since May 2020. In his new role, Bakk will be responsible for delivering on the aggressive growth plans developed during Healey's tenure as the head of UIP by further strengthening customer relationships, growing market share, optimizing production capabilities, and promoting safety and sustainability. Bakk has more than 24 years of chemical industry experience, the last 11 with Koppers after joining the company in November 2012.

Brett Johnston has been named to succeed Bakk as Vice President, North American CMC, effective July 1, 2024. Johnston is currently Commercial Director, North American CMC, where he draws upon his extensive sales and marketing experience to manage critical customer relationships. In his new role, Johnston will be responsible for all activities in North American CMC, including production, logistics, and commercial and financial performance. Additionally, Johnston will be responsible for evaluating ways to further streamline North American CMC by strengthening the supply chain and reducing costs through sharing best practices across the global CMC organization.

Regarding his retirement,Healey said, "It has been my privilege to have made my entire career at Koppers. Seeing our people come together to serve our customers and successfully grow UIP to its current market position has been especially rewarding. I look forward to supporting Jason as he transitions to his new role, and as he and the team continue to capitalize on future opportunities."

Koppers President and Chief Operating Officer James A. Sullivan said, "We extend our sincere gratitude to Jim Healey for his many years of dedicated service and outstanding leadership, which have put UIP on track to achieve its best year yet. As this transition gets under way, we have every confidence that Jason and Brett will succeed in their new roles. The critical organizational changes announced today demonstrate the tremendous talent and bench strength within Koppers. We move forward with a strong belief in our team's ability to continue to grow these businesses safely, responsibly, and profitably."