Frank Myers, president of Bolingbrook, Illinois-based supplier S&S Activewear (PPAI 256121, S12) has been named the company’s chief executive officer, effective November 1. At the same time, current CEO Jim Shannon will transition to vice chairman of S&S’s board of directors.
The New CEO
Myers joined S&S in 2009 and was named president last year after serving as chief financial officer and chief operating officer. He is credited with playing an integral role in the company’s nationwide expansion and acquisition strategy over the past decade, and he has supported Shannon in key company decisions. Myers and the leadership team have also been cited as instrumental in guiding the company through the pandemic, ensuring that S&S retained all of its employees during that two-year period.
“Frank is a seasoned executive. His breadth of experience makes him the ideal candidate for overseeing S&S’s next chapter, and I believe there is no one better fit to handle this position,” says Shannon. “With Frank’s leadership and the combined expertise of the executive team, S&S will continue to provide excellent service to our customers, leading the company into the future.”
Myers says, “I feel humbled to be representing such an amazing company and team. I’m grateful to lead a company with such talented and dedicated employees, and I’m very proud of what we’ve built together over the years.”
Changes At The Top
Business strategies and operational leadership at S&S are not expected to change due to the leadership transition. Myers’ major initiatives are to continue the company’s relationship-first approach and ensure everyone – employees, customers and vendors – works collaboratively to achieve growth.
“As we move forward, we will remain committed to the values and principles that have served us well in the past,” Myers says. “I believe that maintaining our key relationships and focusing on collaboration will help us achieve our goals more efficiently and effectively.”
S&S was acquired by private investment firm Clayton, Dubilier & Rice at the beginning of 2021. Shannon, who joined the company in 1991, transitioned from president of the supplier to CEO when the transaction closed.
Since the acquisition, S&S has added talent across the organization, notably expanding its salesforce, operations staff and executive team. Myers will lead the business alongside veterans Keith Shannon, chief revenue officer, and Brian Beale, chief technology officer, as well as newly hired executives Joy Kelly, chief human resources officer, and Christopher Kodosky, chief financial officer.
“We are thankful for Jim’s stewardship of S&S Activewear. Jim and his team have built a formidable business with multiple layers of sustainable advantage,” says John Compton, operating partner at CD&R and chairman of the board. “We are equally excited to announce the appointment of Frank Myers to CEO and a member of the board of directors. Frank has a distinguished track record of success, and we look forward to partnering with him and his team for future growth.”
