ConMet Names Chris Marr President as John Waters Announces Retirement

VANCOUVER, Wash. - Oct. 27, 2026 - ConMet, a leading global supplier of components and technologies for the commercial vehicle industry, has appointed Chris Marr as president, effective Oct. 12, 2026. Marr succeeds John Waters, who will retire at the end of the year following 34 years with the company.

Marr, who most recently served as vice president of global manufacturing strategy, brings 32 years of experience at ConMet to his new role. As president, he will oversee all ConMet businesses and global operations, guiding the company's continued growth in wheel end technologies, plastics, castings, and active aerodynamics.

"ConMet has been an important part of my life for more than three decades, and I have tremendous pride in this company and the people who make it what it is," said Marr. "I've had the opportunity to work alongside exceptional teams throughout my career, and I know firsthand the dedication, expertise, and commitment they bring to our customers every day. I'm honored to take on this responsibility and excited to build on our strong foundation as we continue growing our business and delivering for our customers around the world."

Marr joined ConMet in 1994 as a project engineer and has since held leadership positions across engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and operations. His previous roles include plant manager at ConMet's Clackamas, Oregon, facility, vice president of supply chain, and vice president of engineering. He also served as president of Diamond Chain, a former Amsted Industries company, before returning to ConMet in 2021. In his most recent role, Marr was responsible for the company's global manufacturing strategy, advanced manufacturing and engineering, supply chain, sustainability, and information technology.

Marr holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Portland State University and an MBA from the University of Oregon.

"Chris brings extensive knowledge of ConMet and broad experience across the business," said Stephen R. Smith, chairman, president, and CEO of Amsted Industries. "His experience positions him well to build upon ConMet's strong foundation and continue developing the company as a world-class supplier to the commercial vehicle industry. We are also deeply grateful to John for his 34 years of outstanding service and leadership. His contributions have helped shape ConMet, and his impact will be felt for years to come."

Waters has served as ConMet's president since 2019, following an extensive career that included 24 years as chief financial officer, as well as leadership roles in sales, operations, and the company's metals division. Throughout his tenure, he played an important role in ConMet's global expansion, including the establishment and growth of operations in Mexico and China, and helped guide the company to record sales.

About ConMet
ConMet, an Amsted Industries company, has been advancing the commercial vehicle industry since 1964. A leading global provider to original equipment manufacturers and aftermarket channels, ConMet delivers wheel ends, cast metal components, plastic systems, and active aerodynamic devices. Designed, engineered, tested, and manufactured in-house, ConMet's comprehensive portfolio is built to enhance vehicle efficiency, performance, and sustainability. Standard on most heavy-duty vehicles in North America, ConMet products are increasingly adopted in global markets.