Why This Matters to Distributors: McNichols’ leadership transition follows its 2025 private equity investment and signals continued emphasis on expanding its distribution network, fabrication capabilities, and strategic acquisitions. The move underscores ongoing consolidation and investment across the industrial distribution sector as companies position for long-term growth.
McNichols Co. has named a new president as the specialty metals distributor moves into its next phase of growth following a strategic investment by private equity firm One Equity Partners in October 2025.
Mateus Panosso joins the Tampa, Florida-based company after serving as head of company-owned distribution at Wilsonart, where he led efforts to expand the engineered surfaces manufacturer’s distribution business through acquisitions, greenfield locations, value-added services, and new product offerings.
Prior to Wilsonart, Panosso was vice president of strategy and corporate development at Armstrong World Industries, where he established the company’s mergers and acquisitions function, completed multiple acquisitions and led the divestiture of its European and Asian businesses. Earlier in his career, he held strategy, business development and operating leadership roles at DuPont and co-founded an import-export distribution company.
CEO Scott McNichols said the appointment supports the company’s long-term growth strategy as it continues its partnership with One Equity Partners.
McNichols operates nineteen service centers across the United States and distributes and fabricates specialty metals and fiberglass products, including perforated and expanded metals, wire mesh, grating, and industrial flooring products. The company serves customers throughout the United States and internationally.
The leadership appointment is the company’s first major executive announcement since One Equity Partners made its investment in McNICHOLS in late 2025. The private equity firm focuses on middle-market industrial, healthcare and technology companies in North America and Europe.
Panosso holds bachelor’s degrees in business and Russian from Miami University, an MBA from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School and a master’s degree in international studies from the University of Pennsylvania’s Lauder Institute.
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