September 26, 2014 – Channellock Inc., a family-owned and -operated plier and hand tool manufacturer has named Jonathan “Jon” S. DeArment (in photo) as its president and COO, effective October 1, 2014. He will succeed his father, William S. DeArment, who will continue as the company’s CEO and board chair.

“It is an honour to be appointed president of our family’s business,” said Jon. “I have always believed that great companies are made from great people and our workforce is our greatest asset. Without all of our 375 associates, we wouldn’t be where we are today.”

With nearly 20 years of experience, Jon began his Channellock career working in the plant during summers while on break from college. Over the years, he worked his way through different areas including maintenance, the machine shop, human resources, sales and marketing, and manufacturing. He was most recently vice-president of manufacturing and engineering.

“Over the last few years as vice-president of manufacturing and engineering, Jon has demonstrated the type of leadership capability I believe can move Channellock forward,” said William. “By continuously improving our initiatives and processes, Jon will position the company to become a world-class operation in a highly competitive, global business environment.”

“I look forward to maintaining and expanding upon that tradition, while ensuring that we’re always producing the best pliers and hand tools for our customers,” added Jon.