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Central States recently announced that Jim Sliker, former CEO and chairman, has retired as a member of the board of directors, and the board has elected Christopher Harrison, the company’s lead independent director, to serve
as chairman of the board, effective October 1, 2026.
Sliker has served as Central States chairman since 2023 and previously as CEO since 2013. Under his leadership, the company experienced significant growth, expanded its product offering and capabilities, strengthened its culture and reinforced its commitment to delivering exceptional value to customers, employees and business
partners.
“As I begin a new chapter, I want to express my sincere gratitude to all of the employee owners for their trust and support over the last 13 years,” says Sliker. “While many measure a career by accomplishments, what I will cherish most are the relationships that have been made. It has been an honor to serve such a great organization full of
people committed to Own It, Can Do, Act in Love and Customers. My hope is that you continue to work together and remain anchored in those values when facing challenges and pursuing new opportunities. Central States will always be considered family.”
Harrison has served as a member of the Central States Board since 2023 and lead independent director since 2024. In that role, he has partnered closely with the board and management on key aspects of the company’s continued evolution, including CEO succession, board composition and ongoing enhancement of governance practices and processes to foster continuous board excellence.
“It is a tremendous honor to be appointed chairman of the board succeeding Jim, who was a key reason I joined the Board in 2023,” says Harrison. “I want to personally thank Jim for his tireless leadership and stewardship of the company, and I am very happy for him as he transitions into this well-deserved next chapter. I look forward to working closely with Kurt Weaver, my fellow directors, and the entire Central States team as we continue to drive the company’s strategy and create maximum value for our customers and shareholders.”
The transition follows a planned succession process overseen by the board’s nominating and governance committee.
“On behalf of the board of directors and the entire Central States organization, we extend our sincere gratitude to Jim for his exceptional leadership, dedication and contributions over the past 13 years,” says Weaver. “We welcome Chris as chairman and look forward to his continued strong leadership, deep expertise, and commitment
as we move Central States forward.”
