#United States #Pittsburgh #Corporate Leadership #Matthews International #Joseph Bartolacci

Joseph C. Bartolacci's Retirement Announcement

Matthews International Corporation, a prominent player in the global markets, has officially announced the retirement of its long-standing President and CEO, Joseph C. Bartolacci. Effective soon, this decision comes after an impressive tenure of nearly 30 years at the company, including 20 as the head of the organization.

A Significant Career

Bartolacci's journey with Matthews began in 1997, when he joined as the General Counsel. His rapid ascent through various leadership roles culminated in his appointment as CEO in 2006. Since that time, he has been a driving force behind the company’s transformation from a memorial-focused entity into a diversified global corporation serving a variety of sectors, including industrial technologies, memorialization, and brand solutions. Under his leadership, Matthews expanded its global presence, completing more than 60 acquisitions and significantly investing in technology and innovation.

One of Bartolacci's key achievements has been the tremendous growth of Matthews in terms of revenue, which soared from approximately $700 million to nearly $2 billion. This impressive trajectory has not only solidified Matthews' standing in the market but has also reinforced its operational capabilities across its core business areas.

A Legacy of Leadership

Michael Nauman, the Chairman of the Board of Directors, expressed deep gratitude for Bartolacci’s contributions. In an official statement, he remarked on Bartolacci’s strong legacy of growth and integrity, noting that his leadership style has greatly benefited the company, especially during challenging times.

Reflecting on his retirement, Bartolacci conveyed pride and gratitude for his many years with the organization, stating, “It has been a privilege to serve Matthews for nearly three decades.” He emphasized that the talented team members at Matthews played a significant role in the company’s successes, and he is optimistic about its future, confident that the current leadership will continue to drive strategies that create value for all stakeholders.

The Transition Period

In light of Bartolacci’s impending departure, the Board of Directors has initiated a succession process to ensure an effective transition of leadership. While the timeline for identifying his successor remains fluid, it is expected that the board will address this matter in a timely manner. Bartolacci has agreed to remain engaged for the interim, providing support to the incoming president and CEO at least until January 1, 2027.

Matthews International Corporation continues to thrive through its two core business segments: Industrial Technologies and Memorialization. These sectors focus on operational efficiency and long-term growth through strategic expansion and continuous innovation. With over 4,300 employees across 15 countries, Matthews is well-poised to uphold its reputation for delivering high-quality products and services.

In conclusion, while the retirement of Joseph C. Bartolacci marks the end of an era for Matthews International, the steadfast leadership and innovative approach fostered during his tenure ensure that the company is strongly positioned for continued success in the future.

Forward-looking Statements: It is worth noting that Matthews International has included forward-looking statements in its communications, addressing potential risks and uncertainties that may affect its future outcomes. This includes various economic factors and market dynamics that could impact the organization’s strategic objectives and operational efficiency.

As Matthews International navigates this transition, it's clear that Bartolacci leaves behind a legacy of growth and resilience, setting the stage for future leadership to build upon the strong foundation laid during his impressive tenure.