Chris Baldwin Takes the Helm as IDEAL Industries' New CEO in Strategic Transition
On October 28, 2025, IDEAL Industries, Inc. marked a significant moment in its corporate history by announcing the appointment of Chris Baldwin as its new Chief Executive Officer, following the retirement of the esteemed Steve Henn. This move underscores IDEAL's commitment to continued excellence in power and electrical distribution solutions.
Steve Henn has steered the company through a transformative six-year period, culminating in record operational performance from 2022 to 2025. During his tenure, he successfully navigated through strategic divestitures and targeted acquisitions that not only reinforced the company's focus on its core business but also outpaced industry growth, laying a robust foundation for future success. Under his leadership, IDEAL Industries has also been recognized for its innovation, receiving accolades for several new product launches that earned industry-wide acclaim.
As Chris Baldwin steps into his role, he brings with him a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of business dynamics, having previously served as COO and President of Knoll. His trajectory in large corporations, combined with his tenure on IDEAL's Board of Directors, positions him uniquely to lead the organization. Chris’s previous experiences include pivotal roles at esteemed companies like Kohler and Siemens, where he developed substantial expertise in various domains such as operations, product development, and mergers.
In his new capacity, Chris is eager to build upon Steve's legacy and to amplify IDEAL’s global footprint further. His strategic vision focuses on fostering innovation and operational excellence, while steering the company toward long-term growth. ‘It’s an honor to accept the baton from Steve and lead IDEAL Industries into the future,’ Chris stated. He continued, 'My goal is to strengthen our global presence while upholding the values and culture that define IDEAL.'
The transition of leadership is a thoughtfully planned process, with Chris working closely with Steve over the coming months to ensure seamless continuity. Meghan Juday, Chairman of the Board, expressed confidence in Chris’s capabilities, noting his sharp business acumen and strategic insights developed through years of collaboration on the board.
As IDEAL anticipates its next chapter, the company remains committed to its core values—integrity, accountability, kindness, sustainability, and respect—while exploring new market avenues. The future appears bright under Chris's guidance, promising not only growth but an enriched company culture that champions collaboration and innovation.
IDEAL Industries, founded in 1916, is a proud family-owned business dedicated to designing and manufacturing superior solutions for efficient power and electrical distribution. With a 109-year legacy, the company continues to thrive under its core belief: creating ideal relationships with customers, employees, partners, and communities. As Chris Baldwin prepares to lead IDEAL, there is a sense of optimism and excitement for what the future holds.