3M Announces Executive Appointments

3M named Hak Cheol (H.C.) Shin executive vice president of international operations and Christopher D. Holmes executive vice president of the Industrial and Transportation Business. Both will report to Inge G. Thulin, who was named 3M’s COO last week. The appointments are effective immediately.

Shin, 53, was previously executive vice president of 3M’s largest business, Industrial and Transportation. Holmes, 52, was previously vice president and general manager of 3M’s Abrasive Systems Division.

“The appointment of these proven leaders represents continuity and progress toward 3M’s goal of faster growth,” Thulin said. “As engineers, H.C. and Chris understand very well the technical underpinnings of 3M’s innovation and efficiency. More importantly, they understand how our innovation creates success for our customers.”

He noted Shin’s success in growing the Industrial and Transportation business over the past six years, his strong operational effectiveness and his deep knowledge of 3M’s international business.

Thulin pointed to Holmes’ focus on driving new product growth and profitability as key to the revitalization of 3M’s industrial abrasives business, and to his vast experience in the industrial market.

Shin holds a degree in mechanical engineering from Seoul National University and has been with 3M since 1984. Holmes joined 3M in 1986 and holds a degree in manufacturing systems engineering from Sheffield Polytechnic in the UK.