New Britain, Connecticut, United States, October 2025 – Stanley Black & Decker, Inc., a global leader in industrial and consumer products, has announced the appointment of Chris Nelson as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective October 1, 2025. Nelson succeeds Donald Allan Jr., who has led the company since 2022 and will transition to Executive Chair of the Board before retiring in 2026.
Nelson, who previously served as Chief Operating Officer and President of the Tools & Outdoor Division, has been a central figure in the company’s ongoing transformation. Since joining Stanley Black & Decker in 2023, he has focused on simplifying the business, sharpening its focus on core markets and end users, and identifying growth opportunities across the company’s $13 billion Tools & Outdoor segment.
In his statement, Nelson expressed enthusiasm for leading the company into its next phase:“Our partnership with employees, customers, end users and partners helps us form a unique ecosystem that builds, repairs and creates the tools and solutions that keep the world moving. Our north star is clear – deliver what they need, when they need it.”
This leadership transition follows a thorough succession planning process and reflects the company’s commitment to maintaining its leadership in tools, fastening, and outdoor solutions worldwide. Nelson’s appointment marks a new chapter for Stanley Black & Decker as it continues to drive operational excellence and strengthen its global position.
Before his elevation to CEO, Chris Nelson served as COO and President – Tools & Outdoor Division at Stanley Black & Decker, where he successfully led business streamlining, operational efficiency, and market re-alignment initiatives.
Prior to joining Stanley Black & Decker, Nelson spent over a decade with Carrier, where he held a series of senior leadership positions, including President, HVAC, President, Commercial HVAC, and President, North America HVAC. During this tenure, he played a pivotal role in transforming Carrier’s HVAC business into a global growth engine, driving innovation, and enhancing profitability.
Earlier in his career, Nelson worked with McKinsey & Company as a Consultant and Engagement Manager, advising global clients on business strategy and organizational performance. He also gained early experience in commercial roles with Johnson & Johnson and served as an Officer in the U.S. Army, instilling in him a foundation of leadership, discipline, and strategic decision-making.
Nelson holds a Master’s degree in Business from Cornell University and is known for his deep operational insight and people-first leadership approach.
About Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.
Founded in 1843, Stanley Black & Decker has been synonymous with innovation, reliability, and craftsmanship for over 180 years. The company’s products and solutions empower builders, makers, and protectors around the world—from professionals on job sites to homeowners, manufacturers, and infrastructure developers.
With a portfolio that includes some of the most recognized brands in the world, the company’s tools, fastening systems, and industrial solutions are integral to modern living—enabling progress in construction, transportation, energy, and manufacturing.
Stanley Black & Decker remains deeply committed to quality, sustainability, and social responsibility, continuously investing in digital transformation and breakthrough innovation to make the world a safer, more efficient, and more connected place.
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