LAGRANGE, GA.—Roger Milliken, chairman of the board for Milliken & Co., announced the imminent retirement of Ashley Allen, the company’s current president and CEO, effective May 1, following his 65th birthday. Joe Salley, current COO for Milliken, will replace Ashley as president and CEO.

“Joe Salley inherits the big shoes of Ashley Allen who has provided tremendous leadership to this private manufacturing company,” Milliken said. “In elevating Joe to the CEO leadership role, we are happy to again be promoting from within. Joe has done an excellent job in his present capacity and is well prepared for his new responsibilities in this role.”

In agreement, Ashley noted Salley is the “perfect choice to lead Milliken into the future. His exceptional intelligence, strategic thinking, youthful energy and engaging personality will serve Milliken well.”

Salley, 40, who joined Milliken in 1994, has held several leadership positions including president of the Performance Products Division, and president of Milliken Research Corp.

Looking to his new role, he turned to the success of the past to propel the future, noting his excitement to be part of the the manufacturer’s future.

“Roger Milliken has created a strong, value-based foundation, and Ashley has continued to strengthen the company with his focus on performance management and leadership development. It’s a privilege to work with our associates to build on the success of these two extraordinary leaders.”

Career path

Ashley’s 38-year career with Milliken included numerous leadership roles such as president of its Chemical Division. He served as president and CEO since 2005.

For information on Milliken, call 800.241.4826 or visit www.milliken.com.