Viking Plastics Names New CEO

Custom injection molder Viking Plastics announced today that current president Shawn Gross will succeed Kelly Goodsel as CEO, effective Nov. 1, 2024, as part of a larger succession strategy. Goodsel will continue in the role of chairman until the end of October and remain involved as a trusted advisor and business ambassador, the company said.

Transition comes on heels of acquisition

Founded in 1972 and headquartered in Corry, PA, Viking Plastics was acquired by the Hoffmann Family of Companies in August of this year. Viking operates more than 50 injection molding machines and multiple automated assembly cells in Kentucky, Indiana, and Pennsylvania for a global customer base. A specialty is sealing closures for automotive and HVAC applications.

“I am excited to welcome Shawn as the next CEO of Viking Plastics,” said Geoff Hoffmann, co-CEO of Hoffmann Family of Companies, in a prepared statement. “Shawn’s extensive plastics expertise, intensive focus on quality, and unwavering commitment to driving a culture of continuous improvement will take the company to new heights. Under Kelly’s leadership, Viking Plastics has seen tremendous growth, establishing itself as a leader in the injection molding and assembled products industry with a trusted brand and strong financial foundation. We wish Kelly all the best in this next chapter of his life.”

Two-decade-long leadership

“On behalf of Viking Plastics’ stakeholders — including our customers, employees, shareholders, suppliers, and community members — I want to sincerely thank Kelly for his 24 years of dedicated service, during which he held key roles as President, CEO, Chairman and owner,” said incoming CEO Gross. He praised Goodsel’s two-decade-long leadership, emphasizing his guidance through the 2008-2009 recession, the challenges of COVID, ownership transitions, and domestic and international expansions. “Most notably, he helped implement an exceptional culture rooted in 2-Second Lean, a book written by Paul Akers, transforming the way we operate,” added Gross.

Calling it an honor to lead such an exceptional team at Viking Plastics, Goodsel said he is “confident the company is well-positioned for continued growth and success. Shawn is a well-rounded executive with a proven track record, and I’m certain he, along with the management team, will further strengthen Viking’s position as the partner of choice across all areas of the business."