News Summary
Mark Bissell, after over 40 years at BISSELL Inc., is stepping down as CEO and chairman to become executive chairman. This change occurs as the company prepares for its 150th anniversary. Adam Madigan, COO, will take over as president, ensuring leadership continuity. The Bissell family remains actively involved in governance, with a strong focus on strategic growth and innovation moving forward.
Walker, MI – Mark Bissell is stepping down as chairman and CEO of BISSELL Inc., a prominent home cleaning products company founded by his family in 1876. As a fourth-generation leader of the Bissell family, he will transition away from day-to-day operations on September 15, 2023, and will take on a new role as executive chairman, focusing on the company’s strategy and planning.
This leadership change comes as BISSELL prepares for a smooth transition and aims for continued growth ahead of its significant milestone: the 150th anniversary in 2026. To ensure continuity in leadership, Adam Madigan, the current chief operating officer, will step into the position of president and chief operating officer, reporting directly to Mark Bissell during this transitional phase. The governance system will remain in the capable hands of the Bissell family, with Max Bissell and Matt Kruer representing the fifth generation in key executive roles.
Mark Bissell has accumulated over 40 years of experience within the company, having held various roles including vice president of marketing, president, and chief operating officer before becoming CEO and chairman in 2007. Under his leadership, BISSELL has solidified its position as a leader in the home cleaning products industry, designing and manufacturing a comprehensive line of goods such as carpet cleaners, vacuums, and steam cleaners. The company proudly holds the status of the seventh oldest privately-owned manufacturing company in the U.S. and is noted for having the number one market share in the U.S. floorcare sector.
Employing more than 700 people in Michigan and a total workforce of 1,950 globally, BISSELL operates its headquarters in Walker, MI, along with several offices across the United States, in locations such as Grand Rapids, Bentonville, AR, Chicago, IL, Charlotte, NC, and Pharr, TX. Internationally, BISSELL has established a presence in Mississauga, Ontario, and Reynosa, Mexico.
Mark Bissell’s commitment to his community is also noteworthy, as he serves on multiple business and community boards, including Business Leaders for Michigan, the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids, and the Heart of West Michigan United Way Campaign Cabinet. His academic credentials include a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Michigan and an MBA from Cornell University.
The transition period is expected to be seamless, allowing BISSELL to maintain its momentum and uphold its legacy of innovation in cleaning products as it approaches its landmark anniversary. The leadership team, strengthened by family involvement and experienced executives, aims to propel the company forward during this significant time of change.
As he steps back from his operational responsibilities, Mark Bissell’s new role as executive chairman marks a significant milestone not just for him, but for the future of BISSELL Inc. and its place in the market. With a solid foundation and experienced leadership team in place, the company is well-positioned to continue its legacy and embrace future opportunities.
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- MLive: Bissell Inc. CEO Mark Bissell Stepping Down
- Fox 17: Fix the Future Free Spay and Neuter Program
- WZZM 13: Bissell Pet Foundation Rescued Schnauzers
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bissell
- Rapid Growth Media: KCAD Grad Designs at Bissell
Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER
GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
