PORTLAND, Ore. — Blount International Inc. ("Blount" or "the Company") today announced the appointment of Paul Tonnesen as its chief executive officer, effective immediately. Tonnesen succeeds Josh Collins, who served as chief executive officer since 2009. Blount's President and Chief Operating Officer, David Willmott, will also be leaving the company.

Tonnesen is a seasoned leader in the global branded goods and durables space, with over 30 years of industry experience and a track record of success leading and growing brands.

"Paul is an executive of the highest caliber, with a history of strong product and brand leadership in the durable goods sector. His expansive industry relationships, track record and leadership approach make him an ideal choice," said Loren Easton, Blount's co-chairman and a managing director of American Securities LLC. "We'd like to thank Josh and David for their leadership and dedication to Blount. We wish them well in their future endeavors."

"We are grateful to have Paul join the team — he is the right executive to lead Blount at this important time. We look forward to working with Paul as he brings a proven track record of product innovation, a global perspective and a growth mindset to the business to continue Blount's growth and market leadership position," said Josh Paulson, Blount's co-chairman and partner at P2 Capital Partners.

"Blount's global footprint, manufacturing expertise and strong customer relationships position it well for continued success. I'm excited to work with the entire Blount team that has set the bar high for world-class innovation and quality," said Tonnesen. "I see enormous opportunity in Blount's leading brands and products and am honored to be a part of Blount's next chapter of success."

Prior to joining Blount, Tonnesen served as a global president of Fiskars Group, a leading global supplier of home, garden and outdoor products, where he oversaw a 10-year period of strong top and bottom-line growth. Tonnesen bolstered Fiskars' R&D department, enhanced brand visibility and grew market share in its key categories.

Before Fiskars, Tonnesen served in several leadership roles with some of the most recognized global brands, including Elmer's Products and KraftHeinz. He received his MBA from Pepperdine University's Graziadio Business School and his bachelor's degree from Le Moyne College, where he serves on the advisory board for the Madden School of Business.