Donaldson Co. Inc. announced today that Joseph Lehman, vice president, global operations, will retire on Aug. 1. Lehman joined Donaldson in 1984 as a financial analyst and has since held a number of key management roles in finance, operations, information technology and business unit management. He was promoted to vice president, global operations in 2010. Lehman also was vice president, global engine aftermarket from 2007 to 2009.
“Joe has helped lead the transformation of our global manufacturing and distribution capabilities through his relentless focus on continuous improvement and outstanding customer service,” said Tod Carpenter, president and CEO. “He is renowned for his dedication to Donaldson, authenticity and results orientation. I’d like to express appreciation and gratitude to Joe for his innumerable contributions and his global leadership throughout his 31-year career.”
With Lehman’s retirement, Richard Lewis will become vice president, global operations, effective Aug. 1. Lewis currently serves as general manager, operations. Lewis joined Donaldson in 2002. During his first eight years, Lewis worked in operations, including line management, plant management in two facilities (Frankfort, Indiana, and Nicholasville, Kentucky) and in director-level leadership. Lewis also served in business unit management as general manager, liquid products from 2010 through 2014.
“Rich’s leadership and expertise across a broad portfolio — air, liquid and industrial systems — will enable us to further expand and enhance our operations to meet our global customers’ needs,” said Carpenter. “In addition, Rich’s experience and drive will help us continue to focus on operational excellence in safety, service, cost and quality, while sustaining our strong culture of continuous improvement.”
Prior to joining Donaldson, Lewis held operations and quality management positions with Ventra Corp. and Seleco Inc. Lewis graduated from the University of Louisville with a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial engineering and from Indiana University with a Masters in Business Administration.
