Rodman Ward III has been named president/chief operating officer of the Speakman Co. He is a direct descendent of the founders of the company. He had been vice president/equipment for Snap-on Europe.

Ward will enhance the ongoing reorganization of the company into three clearly defined business units: showerheads, plumbing solutions and safety/emergency equipment. Also, he will use his international business skills to develop strategic partnerships. Willard A. Speakman III will remain chairman/CEO.

The company was founded in 1869 as a plumbing pipe-fitting company. It manufactures specification quality fittings, electronic faucets, showerheads and emergency equipment. Speakman showerheads have been in continuous use in the White House for the past eight administrations.