Mark Andy has announced the appointment of PJ Desai as its new CEO, effective January 1, 2012. Desai spent several years of his career in various engineering and manufacturing positions in business units of the Monsanto Company, including an assignment in Europe to design, construct and manage a new plant. During his time at Monsanto, he managed several business groups leading to the position of CFO, president and CEO. Desai has a master’s degree in chemical engineering from MIT and an MBA from the University of Michigan.

Current CEO Paul Brauss has announced his retirement, effective December 31, 2011. Throughout his 12 years at Mark Andy, he led the company through numerous acquisitions, operating enhancements and product line developments. Most recently, Mark Andy launched the P7, P5 and P3 presses – enhancing the company’s press offerings and winning two international innovation awards.

“Paul has put us on the path for growth and robust profitability for the current and next generation of products from Mark Andy and Rotoflex,” says Kevin Wilken, COO of Mark Andy. “He has provided the leadership necessary to thrive in changing times.”

Brauss came to Mark Andy in 1998 and took over as CEO in 2003. He retains his position as an executive member of Mark Andy’s Board of Directors.