CEO Change for Stanley Black & Decker

Stanley Black & Decker’s board of directors has named chief operating officer Chris Nelson to succeed Don Allan, Jr. as president and CEO.

Nelson, who also serves as executive vice president and president of the New Britain-based manufacturer’s tools and outdoors business, will assume his new role Oct. 1, 2025.

In a June 30 statement, current board chair Andrea Ayers said Allan “made an indelible impact on Stanley Black & Decker, and we are deeply appreciative of his leadership over the past 26 years.”

“His tenure with the company and as CEO will be defined by his strong connection to our business, our customers and our brands, along with his tireless work to position the company for lasting success,” she said.

“As the architect of our transformation strategy, Don has been instrumental in simplifying the business and has been a stabilizing force during a very challenging period.”

‘Right Moment’

Allan was a 23-year veteran of company when he succeeded Jim Loree as president and CEO in July 2022.

“I am grateful to have had the opportunity to serve as CEO of Stanley Black & Decker and work alongside an extraordinarily talented and resilient team,” he said.

Chris Nelson will succeed Don Allan, Jr. as Stanley Black & Decker’s president and CEO in October.

“We have made numerous achievements, including successfully transforming Stanley Black & Decker into a more streamlined, focused organization.

“As we approach the end of our supply chain transformation and look ahead to the next horizon, the board and I believe now is the right moment to initiate this transition.”

Allan will become executive chair of the company’s board until his planned retirement in October, 2026.

Carrier Connection

Nelson joined Stanley Black & Decker in 2022 and Ayers said he “played a pivotal role in streamlining and optimizing the company around our core businesses and strong portfolio of global brands.”

“His leadership, strategic vision, commercial expertise, and unwavering focus on end-users will continue to be invaluable to all our stakeholders.”

Nelson previously worked at Carrier, where he was president of its flagship heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning segment.

Before joining Carrier, Nelson had leadership roles with the U.S. Army, Johnson & Johnson, and McKinsey & Company.

“I am energized by the opportunity ahead and look forward to working together with the board and our teams around the world,” he said.

“I am confident we have created a strong foundation with our transformation that positions the company for sustainable long-term growth and value creation.”