Lakeland Industries Appoints James M. Jenkins as New President and CEO

As the new CEO, James M. Jenkins will leverage Lakeland's strong competitive advantages to deliver improved results and sustainable growth for shareholders.

This continuity in leadership ensures a smooth transition and maintains the Company's strategic direction.

Mr. Jenkins will remain Executive Chairman, and Tom McAteer Lead Independent Director

HUNTSVILLE, AL / ACCESSWIRE / May 20, 2024 / Lakeland Industries, Inc. (NASDAQ:LAKE) (the "Company" or "Lakeland"), a leading global manufacturer of protective clothing for industry, healthcare and first responders on the federal, state and local levels, today announced the appointment of James "Jim" M. Jenkins as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective June 1, 2024, following a comprehensive search by the Company's Board of Directors.

Mr. Jenkins, a seasoned leader, has a rich history with Lakeland. He had held the role of Executive Chairman of Lakeland since August 2023 and previously held the position of Acting CEO since February 1, 2024, stepping into this role following the departure of Charles D. Roberson, the company's previous CEO. Before this, he served as the Chairman of the Board from February 1, 2023, through August 2023 and as a director since 2016 and from 2012 to 2015. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in the development of the Company's strategy to build a premier global fire services brand and drive profitable growth in our other strategic product lines through product development, channel diversification, and operations optimization.

Mr. Jenkins most recently served as the Chief Legal Officer, Corporate Development Officer and Corporate Secretary for Transcat, Inc., a provider of calibration, repair, inspection and laboratory services. Under his leadership, Transcat achieved outstanding shareholder returns, increasing its market capitalization by $600 million and revenue by almost $100 million. Before joining Transcat, Mr. Jenkins was a partner at Harter Secrest & Emery LLP, a regional law firm in New York State, from 2001 until 2020.

"During his time as a director of Lakeland and especially during his tenure as Executive Chairman and Acting CEO, Jim demonstrated tremendous leadership abilities and a keen understanding of the Company's business, our talented teams, and our growing opportunities in the protective clothing market," said Tom McAteer, Lead Independent Director. "Since becoming Acting CEO, Lakeland has announced two acquisitions in fire services and an expanded route to market for its North American industrial PPE lines. Lakeland's Board and I are very confident that Jim and the company's team of very talented, highly skilled and experienced leaders will lead the Company to new heights through their track record of strategic execution, growing organizations and improving profitability," concluded Mr. McAteer.