J.J. Keller and Associates has a new CEO: James J. Keller, previously the company's president and COO, succeed his brother Robert L. Keller as president/CEO effective Jan 1, 2012.

Robert Keller has held the role of CEO since 1988 and will remain as chairman.

Jim Keller joined the firm full-time in 1968. Over the years he has worked in a variety of positions, becoming the company's president in 2006. During his tenure as COO, he was instrumental in the manufacturing/operations of the business as well as growth in the services division. He has a background in graphic arts and printing. He graduated from Neenah High School and Madison Technical College and is a certified Master Printer. He is also vice president/treasurer of the J. J. Keller Foundation, Inc.

This announcement is a strategic step in a broader, multi-phase succession plan, according to the company.

"Jim's role as president/CEO in the near-term is a key part of our succession plan," explains Robert Keller. "We have taken a thoughtful and long-term approach to our planning with the intention of keeping the business private and in the family."

Robert Keller will continue as chairman, presiding over the board of directors. In addition to leading the board, he will be involved in preparing the next generation of leaders. He will also remain as president/chairman of the J. J. Keller Foundation.

Bob started with the firm at age 12 and has served in nearly all roles throughout the firm, including the top leadership role for over a quarter century. During his tenure he led the firm in growth from approximately $10 million to $200 million. The company currently employs approximately 1,100.

J.J. Keller is a third generation family business, founded by John J. Keller in 1953. Robert and James are both second-generation leaders who have worked in nearly every aspect of the company.