MSA Safety Appoints Elyse Brody as Interim CFO After Lee McChesney's Departure

MSA Safety Appoints Elyse Brody as Interim CFO

MSA Safety Incorporated, listed under the ticker MSA on the NYSE, has recently confirmed that its Chief Financial Officer, Lee B. McChesney, will be resigning from his position effective March 21, 2025. In an unexpected turn of events, McChesney has chosen to venture into a similar role at another public firm.

Since assuming the CFO role in October 2022, McChesney has played a pivotal part in enhancing the financial landscape of MSA Safety. Under his stewardship, the company has seen a consolidation of its financial strategy, primarily focusing on the MSA Business System. This system aims to drive continuous improvement across the Finance organization, fostering functional excellence—a core component of MSA’s long-term strategy.

In light of McChesney's resignation, the company's President and CEO, Steve Blanco, has expressed gratitude for McChesney's substantial contributions during his tenure. “We thank Lee for his impactful work since joining us. He has been a strong advocate for implementing the MSA Business System, a key framework that has bolstered our financial effectiveness,” Blanco stated.

To bridge the transition period, Elyse L. Brody, who currently serves as the Executive Director of Financial Planning and Analysis and Strategy, has been appointed as the interim CFO. Brody, a seasoned financial leader with extensive experience in strategic planning and financial management, is expected to maintain stability and continuity as MSA conducts a comprehensive search for a new CFO.

“Having someone of Elyse's caliber step into the interim role will ensure that our financial operations continue to thrive during this transitional phase,” Blanco added. Brody's expertise in financial planning is likely to be invaluable as MSA navigates this organizational change.

Founded in 1914, MSA Safety has established itself as a global leader in safety products, technologies, and solutions. The company's commitment to worker and facility safety has driven continuous innovation in the safety sector, generating $1.8 billion in revenue for the year 2024. With over 5,000 associates across 40 countries, MSA Safety remains dedicated to creating sustainable value for its shareholders while protecting workers in various industries.

With McChesney’s departure, MSA Safety enters a new chapter, and stakeholders are keen to see how the search for a permanent CFO unfolds. The emphasis on maintaining a robust financial foundation will be a critical aspect of MSA’s future strategy, ensuring the continued delivery of value and safety solutions worldwide.

For further updates and information, continue following MSA Safety as they adapt to these leadership changes and remain at the forefront of safety innovation.