WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Association of Manufacturers has announced that Rockwell Automation Chairman and CEO Blake Moret and The J.M. Smucker Company Chairman and CEO Mark Smucker will serve as board chair and vice chair, respectively.
“At a defining moment for manufacturing—marked by rapid technological change, global competition and the need for policies that unlock investment in America—the NAM is excited to announce the election of these proven leaders,” said NAM President and CEO Jay Timmons. “Blake Moret and Mark Smucker lead companies that sit at the heart of America’s manufacturing strength—from overseeing advanced industrial automation powering the factories of the future to delivering iconic and trusted food brands that consumers and their families enjoy every day. Their leadership and vision will help manufacturers prosper and reach new heights in the years ahead. I also want to thank Immediate Past Chair and Johnson & Johnson Executive Vice President and Chief Technical Operations & Risk Officer Kathy Wengel for her outstanding leadership and steady guidance—delivering new opportunities for manufacturers and positioning our industry to build on that momentum.”
“Blake has long been an advocate for modern manufacturing, championing technology adoption, workforce development and a competitive policy environment that enables manufacturers of all sizes and all industries to grow and succeed,” Timmons continued. “Mark brings a seasoned manufacturing perspective grounded in operational excellence, supply chain strength and a commitment to community. In 2025, Congress delivered vital legislation making pro-manufacturing tax policies permanent. In 2026 and beyond, our industry will use that pro-growth tax foundation to build, expand, hire and innovate. At every step, these leaders will provide invaluable counsel to lay the groundwork for policies that deliver for our industry and enable manufacturers to make the most of these tax provisions. Together, Blake and Mark will be effective champions for the comprehensive manufacturing strategy our nation needs.”
“The manufacturing industry is at the center of America’s economic strength and global leadership,” said Moret. “It is an honor to serve as chair of the NAM Board and to represent manufacturers who are innovating, investing and creating opportunity across the country. I look forward to working with Jay and the NAM team to advance policies that support growth, technology leadership and a robust manufacturing workforce.”
Moret previously served as Chair of the Board for the Manufacturing Institute, the workforce development and education affiliate of the NAM. Throughout his tenure, he was deeply engaged in efforts to build skills programs and change the perception of modern manufacturing careers.
The NAM Board of Directors guides the association’s leadership in policy advocacy, legal action, operational excellence, workforce development and news and insights. More than 200 manufacturing leaders serve on the NAM Board, helping advance an agenda that enhances manufacturing competitiveness and the industry’s ability to improve lives in the United States and around the world.
The new board leadership was elected at the September NAM board meeting.
NAM Welcomes New Leaders to Council of Manufacturing Associations
NAM has also announced new leadership for its Council of Manufacturing Associations following the CMA 2026 Winter Leadership Conference. Corey Rosenbusch, president and CEO of The Fertilizer Institute, will take over as chair, and Kelly Mariotti, president and CEO of the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, will serve as vice chair.
“Manufacturers are doing what we’ve always done: pioneering innovation, powering the economy and responding to dynamic markets,” said Rosenbusch. “There’s no better time to be in manufacturing, and I’m thrilled—and honored—to lead the CMA as manufacturers navigate a new era in our industry. The mission of the CMA has never been more important. I hope that in this position I can illustrate the vital role manufacturing plays across every segment of the U.S. economy.”
The CMA is made up of over 200 industry-specific manufacturing associations representing 130,000 companies and works with the NAM to build partnership and collaboration across the manufacturing industry and larger business community to align strategies to increase manufacturing jobs and encourage investment.
“Corey and Kelly are proven, respected leaders, and both of them have demonstrated a deep dedication to the CMA’s mission and growth,” said NAM President and CEO Jay Timmons. “I’m grateful they’ve agreed to step into these leadership roles during a pivotal time for our industry. With Corey and Kelly’s partnership, manufacturers will build on our momentum after our recent success in securing pro-growth tax reform—and we will advance a comprehensive manufacturing strategy that unlocks opportunities for every sector represented in the CMA and for every manufacturer across the United States.”
Before leading The Fertilizer Institute, Rosenbusch served as president and CEO of the Global Cold Chain Alliance and as vice chair of the CMA under the previous chair, Alison Bodor.
The CMA also appointed new members to the 2026 board:
- Frank Hugelmeyer, president and CEO, National Marine Manufacturers Association
- Matt Seaholm, president and CEO, The Plastics Industry Association
- Megan Tanel, president and CEO, Association of Equipment Manufacturers
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