ST. LOUIS, March 28 — Core & Main, Inc. (NYSE: CNM), a leading specialty distributor dedicated to advancing reliable infrastructure with local service, nationwide, today announced changes to its board of directors and executive chair, effective April 1, 2026, as part of the Company’s long-term succession planning.
The board appointed M. Susan Hardwick as a director and as a member of the talent and compensation committee. Ms. Hardwick most recently served as chief executive officer of American Water Works Company, Inc. from 2022 to 2025, and previously served as its chief financial officer from 2019 to 2022. She brings to the board of directors extensive executive leadership experience in the regulated utility industry, with a strong background in finance, capital allocation and strategic transactions.
In connection with Ms. Hardwick’s appointment, the company undertook additional governance transition actions. Specifically, Stephen LeClair retired from his role as executive chair and chair of the board, and James Castellano, previously the company’s lead independent director, was appointed chair of the board. In addition, James Hope was named chair of the audit committee, and Robert Buck was appointed as a member of the audit committee.
“Susan brings valuable leadership experience in the water industry to Core & Main’s board, which will be instrumental as we continue to execute our growth strategy,” said Mark Witkowski, chief executive officer of Core & Main. “Her perspective and experience will further strengthen the board as we advance our strategic priorities.”
“It is an honor to be joining Core & Main’s board of directors,” Hardwick said. “I look forward to contributing my experience in the regulated utility industry to support the company’s continued success.”
“On behalf of the board of Core & Main, I would like to thank Steve for his many years of service to the organization,” Castellano said. “Steve served as CEO and a member of the board from the time Core & Main became an independent company in 2017 through March 2025, and as board chair since 2024. His leadership played an important role in positioning the company for success, and we wish him well in retirement.”
Ms. Hardwick becomes the ninth independent director on Core & Main’s ten-member Board. In addition to Ms. Hardwick, independent directors include Bhavani Amirthalingam, Robert Buck, James Castellano, Dennis Gipson, James Hope, Orvin Kimbrough, Kathleen Mazzarella, and Margaret Newman. Additional information about Core & Main’s board of directors can be found here.
