3M today named Michael G. Vale executive vice president, Consumer and Office Business, succeeding Joe E. Harlan, who has announced that he will leave 3M to pursue opportunities at The Dow Chemical Co. Vale, 45, most recently headed 3M’s operations in Brazil as managing director, where he drove impressive growth, especially in the consumer segment. He will report to 3M Chief Operating Officer Inge G. Thulin.

“Mike’s global experience and proven leadership skill qualify him well for this important assignment,” said Thulin. “His focus on customers is matched only by his passion to drive 3M’s growth around the world.”

Prior to his leadership of 3M Brazil, Vale served as vice president and general manager of 3M’s Aearo Technologies Inc. acquisition, which was successfully integrated into 3M. Before that, he was managing director of 3M Spain. Vale holds a B.S. in Chemistry from Yale University and a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Of Harlan, Thulin said, “We wish to thank Joe for his many contributions to 3M over the past 10 years and wish him every success in his new position. At each step in his 3M career, Joe’s business acumen, creativity and passion for growth have been cornerstones of his leadership.”

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