Succession at $458M manufacturer leads to new CEO

VENICE — PGT Innovations CEO Rod Hershberger plans to retire at the end of the year, capping more than 35 years with the impact-resistant window and door manufacturer.

The Venice-based company, one of the largest employers in the region with some 2,600 employees, promoted President Jeff Jackson to CEO, part of its succession plan, according to a statement. The transition will be effective Jan. 1, the release adds. Hershberger — who co-founded PGT in 1980 and has been CEO since 2005 — will remain chairman of the board.

“It has been an honor to lead PGT Innovations for the past 37 years, and I am grateful for the tremendous support I have received from our team members and customers over the years,” Hershberger says in the release. “Consistent with our succession planning, we've promoted from within a demonstrated leader at a time when PGT Innovations is in a strong position.”

Adds Hershberger: “Jeff has the ability to translate vision and strategy into industry-leading execution, bringing together brands, products and teams to drive results. As a 12-year veteran with the company, Jeff already understands all aspects of our business and will move the company forward to capitalize on the opportunities in front of us.”

Jackson joined PGT Innovations in November 2005 as vice president and CFO, after working for Hershey Co. In 2006, he helped lead the company's IPO, and was later named Executive Vice President. In June 2014 he was named President and COO.

“I am humbled and excited by the opportunity to lead PGT Innovations,” says Jackson in the release. “I look forward to continuing to work with our team and valued customers to build upon the solid foundation that Rod created and to realize the opportunities we have going forward.”

PGT had $458.5 million in revenue in 2016.