After a long and distinguished career, James A. “Jim” Veltrie President and CEO of Tower Products Incorporated, and its internationally known divisions, Markertek and TecNec Distributing, has announced his retirement effective December 30th, 2025.
Veltrie was one of the first employees hired by Mark Braunstein, Founder, President & CEO as well as Chairman of the Board of Tower Products, in 1987. He was appointed to the President & CEO position upon Braunstein’s retirement in 2016.
Throughout his 38-year career, Veltrie has been an integral part of the company’s consistent growth and stability, establishing long-term, positive business partnerships. He also led the successful transition to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Company – a milestone that solidified the company’s future.
As President and CEO, Jim initiated Open Book Management and established an Executive Management Team. He prioritized and embedded Core Values and a collaborative culture throughout the organization. That foundation proved critical in navigating the unprecedented challenges of COVID-19, enabling the company to remain strong under his exemplary leadership.
During his tenure, Tower achieved a significant increase in Share Value while making substantial investments in advanced manufacturing and facility upgrades to support a workforce that grew by 20%. Veltrie also strengthened Braunstein’s Corporate Mission of ‘Feeding the Hungry’ by expanding support toward initiatives carried out by the Markertek Fund and the annual Markertek Open Charity Golf Tournament, which together have contributed over $1 million to the Regional Food Bank to date.
Veltrie worked closely with Tower’s Board of Directors to elect a successor. Tower Products Incorporated is pleased to announce that current Chief Marketing Officer, Gregory DeCelle will be named President & CEO upon his retirement. DeCelle will bring his extensive knowledge of the industry, 32-year tenure, experience and leadership as he and Veltrie work together toward a smooth transition.
