On Oct. 5, Blount International recognized the 50-year employment anniversary of James S. Osterman, its chairman and chief executive officer. Osterman joined the company, Omark Industries at the time, in 1959 as an inventory planner.

Blount International chairman and CEO celebrates 50-year anniversary

On Oct. 5, Blount International recognized the 50-year employment anniversary of James S. Osterman, its chairman and chief executive officer. Osterman joined the company, Omark Industries at the time, in 1959 as an inventory planner.


Over the next five decades, Osterman excelled in many roles, holding positions such as director of European operations and senior vice president of marketing, manufacturing and engineering. When Blount International purchased Omark Industries in 1985, Osterman was promoted to president of its Oregon Cutting Systems division. He became president and chief executive officer of Blount International in August 2002, and eventually chairman and chief executive officer in April 2005.


Osterman recently noted, “It has been a very interesting and rewarding 50 years, with many challenges and many opportunities. I think we have positioned the company well for the future, with new products and new technologies coming on line.”


On September 28, Blount International announced a CEO succession plan, which included hiring Joshua L. Collins as president, chief operating officer and CEO Designate. Collins will assume the position of chief executive officer when Osterman retires on January 4, 2010. Osterman will stay on as a consultant to the company following his retirement.