Lube-Tech appoints CEO

Lube-Tech’s leadership transition plan leads to the hire of CEO Chad Baker. The president role was formerly held by Eric Jackson for 19 years.

“We have been so lucky to have Eric’s passion for the business, love for people, endless energy and leadership guiding us, and are excited for him to be able to retire and enter the next chapter of his life,” said Chris and Marna Bame, Lube-Tech founders. “In June, we began an external search for a replacement that was focused on finding a new leader who embodied our purpose and values and would help take us to the next level. In October, we added Chad Baker to our Lube-Tech family as our CEO.”

Chad is a people-first leader who was born and raised in Minnesota. He has experience leading and developing strong teams within food manufacturing and distribution-based companies. Chad started his career in sales at Hormel Foods and then spent 17 years at Smithfield Foods before moving home to Minnesota to spend five years at POST Holdings as president of the Crystal Farms Cheese business

Most recently, Chad was CEO of Golding Farms Foods, a company that specializes in manufacturing and packaging salad dressings, sauces, dips and beverages. How does a food guy fit into the oil business? His last role involved turning soybean oil into salad dressing in a facility that looks just like Lube-Tech’s Golden Valley 900 plant.

Chad lives in the cities with his wife of 26 years, Kirsten, and has three daughters. Chad and his family boat, travel and love to go to Gopher football and hockey games.

“We know this is big news, but rest assured, we are confident that with the continued support of the Bame family, Chad’s experience and values will help begin the next evolution of our future together,” Chris Bame said. “Please join Marna and I in giving Chad a warm Lube-Tech welcome to our family and thanking Eric for everything he’s done to help us grow and succeed over the last 19 years.”