Brook + Whittle Completes CEO Transition Amid Growth Plans
Brook + Whittle, a prominent player in the North American packaging sector, recently marked a significant change in its leadership. The company’s Board of Directors has confirmed the completion of a carefully planned CEO transition. On January 12, 2026, Carl Will was officially appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer, taking over from Mark Pollard, who will assist with the transition for a short period.
Mark Pollard has played a vital role in steering Brook + Whittle through numerous challenges, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. His extensive experience enabled the company to navigate successfully through a trying time, and under his leadership, Brook + Whittle pursued various strategic acquisitions while successfully executing a major refinancing plan. These actions have contributed to strengthening the company's foundation and positioning it well for sustained growth moving forward.
The Board expressed deep gratitude towards Pollard for his dedication and leadership throughout his tenure, recognizing his contributions to the firm’s enduring success. With excitement, the Board welcomed Carl Will, a seasoned professional known for his ability to cultivate and elevate industrial companies to market leadership.
Carl brings a wealth of experience to the role and has a proven track record of enhancing profitability for organizations. His most recent endeavor involved leading a firm focused on helping companies to refine their operational processes effectively. In a statement, Carl expressed his excitement about joining Brook + Whittle, emphasizing the company’s commitment to its customers – the core reason for its existence. He voiced confidence in the team's ability to distinguish itself and enhance customer products through exceptional service.
Rob Rutledge, Chair of the Board, praised Carl’s leadership qualities, highlighting his history of driving growth and maintaining operational excellence. Rutledge reassured stakeholders that under Will's guidance, Brook + Whittle will continue to build on its solid foundation and achieve its long-term strategic goals.
Throughout this leadership change, the existing leadership team will remain fully engaged, ensuring continuity in the company's strategic direction and daily operations. As expressed by Rutledge, there is a strong belief in the company's path ahead, combined with a commitment to professionalism, focus, and dedication within the workforce during this transition.
About Brook + Whittle
Brook + Whittle stands out as one of North America’s leading manufacturers of sustainable packaging solutions, including pressure-sensitive labels, shrink sleeves, flexible packaging, and heat transfer labels. With headquarters located in Guilford, Connecticut, the company operates fourteen facilities across the United States, dedicated to delivering value to its customers through innovative, eco-friendly packaging solutions, exceptional decoration capabilities, and swift service leading times.
For more information about Brook + Whittle and its innovative offerings, visit
www.brookandwhittle.com.