Graco strengthens board leadership with appointment of manufacturing executive Steven B. Hedlund

Published on June 16, 2026 Time: loading...

Graco Inc. has announced the appointment of Steven B. Hedlund to its Board of Directors, further strengthening the company’s leadership with extensive expertise in manufacturing operations, business strategy and international market development. The appointment will become effective on 10 September 2026.

The addition of Hedlund reflects Graco’s continued focus on maintaining a board structure that supports long-term growth, operational excellence and strategic decision-making within the global industrial sector.

Hedlund currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc., a leading manufacturer of advanced arc welding solutions. He has held the chief executive position since January 2024 and also serves as Chairman of the company.

His appointment brings decades of manufacturing and business leadership experience to the Graco boardroom. The move is expected to strengthen the company’s governance capabilities as industrial markets continue to evolve.

Extensive Experience Across Manufacturing and Strategy

Throughout his career, Hedlund has held several senior leadership positions within the manufacturing industry. Before becoming President and Chief Executive Officer of Lincoln Electric, he served as the company’s Chief Operating Officer.

During his tenure, he contributed to operational management, strategic planning and business development initiatives across multiple areas of the organisation.

His leadership responsibilities extended across commercial and operational functions. Growth opportunities were identified. Strategic initiatives were implemented. International expansion efforts were also supported.

Prior to joining Lincoln Electric, Hedlund worked at Fortune Brands, Inc., where he held leadership positions focused on growth, innovation and business development. His responsibilities included evaluating new market opportunities and supporting long-term strategic planning.

Earlier in his professional career, he worked as a principal consultant at Booz Allen Hamilton, one of the world’s recognised management consulting firms. This experience provided exposure to complex business challenges across a range of industries and corporate environments.

His academic credentials further complement his professional background. He earned both a bachelor’s degree and a Master of Business Administration from Dartmouth College.

Board Appointment Supports Long-Term Growth Objectives

The appointment comes as industrial companies increasingly seek experienced leaders capable of navigating rapidly changing global markets, supply chain challenges and evolving customer demands.

Manufacturing businesses continue to face pressure to improve operational efficiency while pursuing sustainable growth opportunities. Strong governance structures are therefore becoming increasingly important.

Graco’s leadership believes Hedlund’s experience aligns closely with these requirements.

According to company Chairman J. Kevin Gilligan, Hedlund has demonstrated a strong record of leadership and value creation throughout his career. His experience in international business development and manufacturing operations was highlighted as particularly valuable for Graco’s future direction.

The company noted that his understanding of global go-to-market strategies and industrial sector dynamics will provide important insights at board level.

His appointment is viewed as a strategic addition. Industry knowledge will be strengthened. Global perspectives will be added.

Committee Responsibilities Announced

In addition to joining the Board of Directors, Hedlund has been appointed to two key board committees.

He will serve on the Audit Committee. He will also join the Management Organisation and Compensation Committee.

These committees play an important role in overseeing financial governance, executive performance, compensation structures and organisational leadership practices.

Board committee responsibilities require significant expertise. Independent oversight is expected. Strong governance standards must be maintained.

The inclusion of Hedlund on these committees reflects confidence in his leadership experience and business judgement.

Corporate governance remains a critical area of focus for publicly listed manufacturing companies. Effective board oversight supports risk management, strategic planning and shareholder value creation.

As Graco continues to expand its global presence, experienced leadership at both management and board levels remains essential.

Graco’s Position in Industrial Technology Markets

Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Graco is recognised internationally for its expertise in fluid and coating management technologies. The company designs, manufactures and markets equipment and systems used to move, measure, control, dispense and spray a wide range of fluid and powder materials.

Its products support customers operating across several industrial sectors. Manufacturing facilities rely on its technologies. Construction applications are served. Processing and maintenance industries are also supported.

The company has established a strong reputation for innovation within specialised industrial markets. Its equipment is used worldwide in applications requiring precision, efficiency and reliability.

Demand for advanced fluid handling solutions continues to grow as manufacturers seek greater productivity and operational consistency. Technology-driven solutions are increasingly being adopted across industrial environments.

This market trend creates new opportunities for companies with specialised engineering capabilities and global customer networks.

Leadership Expertise Remains a Competitive Advantage

The appointment of Steven B. Hedlund highlights the growing importance of experienced industrial leadership within publicly traded manufacturing organisations. As markets become more complex, boards are increasingly seeking directors with practical operational expertise and proven strategic vision.

Hedlund’s background combines executive leadership, manufacturing operations, innovation management and international business development. These capabilities are expected to contribute to Graco’s long-term objectives and support its continued growth strategy.

With industrial markets undergoing rapid transformation, leadership experience remains a valuable asset. Through this appointment, Graco has reinforced its commitment to strong governance, strategic oversight and sustainable business performance in the years ahead.