Andrew Masterman has taken on the position of President and Chief Executive Officer of ESAB North America, effective August 17, 2009. He will be based in Florence, South Carolina, and will replace Brendan Colgan, who will be assuming the role of Chairman of The ESAB Group, Inc. (North America) and will also assume additional responsibilities by year's end as Operations Director for ESAB Global including India, South America, Asia Pacific and China.

“Andrew Masterman possesses a diverse background primarily within the metals business sectors,” said Mr. Colgan, “His experience includes industrial engineering, manufacturing, finance and general management. I feel confident that we will accomplish a smooth transition, and that I am leaving the company in the hands of an experienced business professional who will provide the leadership needed to meet the needs of the future.”

“I am excited at the prospect of guiding ESAB during these difficult economic times,” Masterman said. “This is a foreword-thinking company, and I look forward to working with them to shape the future of manufacturing to meet the needs of the welding and cutting community.”

Masterman was previously president of Metalico’s Platinum Group Metals division. Prior to that, he held the position of president within Spartan Light Metals, TI Automotive and Walbro Corporation. He has also served in a senior financial role for Intel Corporation's Server Business Unit. He has lived in Japan and led operations there as well as other locations in Asia and in Mexico. Masterman completed his undergraduate studies at Colorado College. He subsequently completed graduate studies at the University of Michigan and holds advanced degrees in Japanese Studies, Industrial Engineering and an MBA.