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ITU AbsorbTech Welcomes Craig Bald as New President and CEO

Press release and media kit

Press Materials

This press kit provides photographs and press samples featuring Craig Bald, the new President and CEO of ITU AbsorbTech, and Jim Leef, the former President and CEO, third-generation owner, and current Chairman of the Board.

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You can link to the official company announcement here: Announcing ITU AbsorbTech’s New President and CEO – ITU AbsorbTech

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Press Release

January 2025 – ITU AbsorbTech announces Craig Bald as the company’s next President and CEO, marking the first time in its 90+ year history that a non-family member will hold this role.

Craig transitions into this position after 14 years as Chief Financial Officer, where he played a pivotal role on the senior leadership team and contributed significantly to the execution of the company’s Strategic Plan. His deep understanding of the business and unwavering commitment to ITU AbsorbTech’s Business Tenets position him as an outstanding choice to guide the organization into its next chapter.

After more than 30 years as President and CEO, Jim Leef will assume the role of Executive Chairman of the Board. Reflecting on his tenure as the company’s third-generation leader, Leef expressed gratitude, stating, “I feel incredibly fortunate to have been surrounded by a supportive family and dedicated employees who have helped grow ITU AbsorbTech into what it is today.”

Craig Bald will officially assume responsibility for daily operations in January 2025. “I’m honored to follow Jim’s lead and build on the strong foundation that he and the Leef family have established for the company,” Bald said. “I look forward to driving continued growth and expanding the sustainable business practices, innovations, and values that have made ITU AbsorbTech a trusted partner and industry leader.”

Looking ahead, Leef added, “My family and I are thrilled to see Craig step into this leadership role, and we’re confident he will be an exceptional leader for ITU AbsorbTech for many years to come.”

About ITU AbsorbTech

Headquartered in New Berlin, Wisconsin, ITU AbsorbTech is a family-owned environmental services company founded in 1930. We provide sustainable, managed service programs for shop towels, SorbIts® oil absorbents, and other reusable textiles, helping businesses reduce waste and meet ISO 14001 standards and achieve safety goals. Operating 15 locations and servicing manufacturers throughout most of the eastern US, ITU AbsorbTech is committed to Genuine Service Excellence, innovation, environmental stewardship, and community involvement.