Barr names Ward Swanson as president and CEO

In June, Barr announced the appointment of Ward Swanson as our next president and CEO. A Barr vice president and senior environmental scientist, Ward will assume the role in late July 2021, succeeding John Lee, president and CEO for the past eight years.

Ward’s appointment is the culmination of a selection process that began in mid-2020 when John announced his plans to step down as CEO. Barr’s Board of Directors, acting on the recommendation of a selection committee, chose Ward for the role and shared this decision with Barr staff members during a June shareholder meeting.

A 23-year veteran of Barr, Ward is a leading expert on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). He previously led Barr’s Assessment and Remediation business unit and has worked across all major industry segments served by Barr. A member of Barr’s board of directors, Ward has served as a coach and mentor to dozens of employees.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to lead this outstanding company,” said Ward. “Our team’s commitment to client service, problem-solving and technical abilities are truly unmatched.”

John will work closely with Ward to support his transition and plans to stay with Barr in a different capacity after stepping down as CEO. “It’s been the privilege of a lifetime to lead this special company,” said John. “I have the utmost confidence that Ward will serve Barr and our valued clients extremely well.”