MillerKnoll Strengthens Leadership for Next Era
In a decisive move toward achieving sustained growth, MillerKnoll (NASDAQ: MLKN), a leading small-cap company in the industrial and consumer sectors, has made notable leadership appointments. Effective October 13, 2025, John Hoke will step into the role of Board Chair, succeeding Mike Volkema, who is retiring after 25 years of dedicated service on the Board. Jeff Stutz will take on the responsibilities of Chief Operating Officer starting September 8, 2025, continuing his direct reporting to Andi Owen, the current President and CEO of MillerKnoll.
Andi Owen expressed gratitude for Volkema's long-term contributions, emphasizing his invaluable role in steering the Board through key milestones. "On behalf of our global team, I thank Mike for his steadfast commitment and guidance over the years," she stated. Owen is excited about collaborating with Hoke as the new Board Chair. Hoke, a distinguished leader with extensive expertise in design thinking and brand management, has been a member of the MillerKnoll Board since 2005. He previously served as Chief Innovation Officer at Nike, bringing over 30 years of experience in design and innovation to his new position.
"I am honored to accept this role at MillerKnoll, a company dedicated to leveraging design to enhance lives globally," said Hoke. His vision aligns with MillerKnoll's mission of transformation through its design-driven brands, which focus on improving the spaces where people live and work. He holds degrees from Penn State University and the University of Pennsylvania, along with completing the Executive Program at Stanford University of Business.
Stutz, who previously served as Chief Financial Officer since 2015, has also played a crucial role in the company's growth, particularly during the acquisition of Knoll, Inc. in 2020. In his new position as COO, he will oversee not only the International Contract business and global manufacturing but will also focus on brands based in Europe, such as HAY, Muuto, Colebrook Bosson Saunders, and NaughtOne. Stutz aims to optimize operations and expand MillerKnoll's global brand presence through collaborations with dealers around the world.
Reflecting on Stutz's 25-year career at MillerKnoll, Owen remarked, "Jeff has influenced nearly every aspect of our business, and his leadership transition will be seamless. It supports our ongoing strategy to utilize our global network effectively, helping us meet the evolving needs of our customers."
For the interim, Kevin Veltman, the current Senior Vice President of Finance, will step in as the Chief Financial Officer while the search for a permanent successor is underway. Veltman brings extensive experience, having managed various leadership roles within the organization over his decade-long tenure.
As MillerKnoll gears up for its next chapter, it continues to reinforce its mission of innovative design through its diverse brand portfolio. The company operates with a collective of design brands that includes both Herman Miller and Knoll and offers a wide range of furniture solutions for both commercial and residential environments. With a reported net sales of $3.7 billion in fiscal year 2025, MillerKnoll remains committed to fostering a better world through its design initiatives.
By actively engaging in initiatives that foster sustainability and innovation, MillerKnoll sets the groundwork for an exciting future, effectively aligning with the needs of modern living, working, and gathering spaces. For more information about MillerKnoll and its offerings, visit
millerknoll.com.