As a result, the Board of Directors has initiated a search for Mr. Lemieux's successor. To assist with the mission of finding a new CEO, the board has retained Heidrick & Struggles, an international executive search firm, which will review appropriate internal and external candidates.
Mr. Lemieux, 72, is a 46-year veteran of the Company. He became chief executive officer in 1990 and Chairman of the Board of Directors in 1991.
Owens-Illinois is the largest manufacturer of glass containers in North America, South America, Australia and New Zealand, and one of the largest in Europe. O-I also is a worldwide manufacturer of plastics packaging with operations in North America, South America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Plastics packaging products manufactured by O-I include consumer products (blow molded containers, injection molded closures and dispensing systems) and prescription containers.
Owens-Illinois CEO Announces Retirement Effective Dec. 31, 2003
The Board of Directors of Owens-Illinois, Inc., announced that Joseph H. Lemieux, the current Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, has advised them of his plans to retire effective December 31, 2003.