Watlow Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Watlow has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, technology, operations, human resources, and general management.

Driven by a commitment to innovation, Watlow focuses on delivering thermal solutions that enhance product performance and efficiency for industrial applications worldwide.

Leadership Roles at Watlow

  • Chief Executive Officer - Rob Gilmore
  • Chief Financial Officer - Colleen Mettler
  • Chief Financial Officer & Partner - Rina Esquivel-Tanchico
  • Chief Operating Officer - Daniel Lee
  • President - Gary Neal
  • Chief Technology Officer - Ashish Bhatnagar
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Erica McKeon
  • Rob Gilmore - Chief Executive Officer

    Rob Gilmore, the Chief Executive Officer at Watlow, directs the company's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Overseeing all business units, Gilmore ensures alignment with the company's long-standing mission of providing superior thermal solutions. This leadership role involves driving innovation in industrial heating, sensor, and controller technologies to meet evolving market demands. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, Rob Gilmore guides the organization in expanding its global reach and enhancing customer value. The Chief Executive Officer's purview encompasses financial performance, market positioning, and long-term growth initiatives, ensuring Watlow maintains its leadership in the industrial manufacturing sector.
    Rob Gilmore

    Colleen Mettler - Chief Financial Officer

    Colleen Mettler, the Chief Financial Officer at Watlow, manages the company's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Overseeing all financial operations, Mettler ensures robust accounting practices and drives efficient resource allocation across global departments. This critical role involves developing financial models to support Watlow's growth objectives and maintaining strong relationships with investors and financial institutions. By implementing stringent financial controls, Colleen Mettler safeguards the company's assets and optimizes profitability. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to risk management, capital allocation, and providing key financial insights that inform executive decision-making, thereby supporting the company's sustained market presence.

    Rina Esquivel-Tanchico - Chief Financial Officer & Partner

    Rina Esquivel-Tanchico, the Chief Financial Officer & Partner at Watlow, provides strategic financial leadership and partnership across the organization. Overseeing financial planning and analysis, Esquivel-Tanchico ensures fiscal discipline and supports key investment decisions that drive company growth. This role involves collaborating with executive leadership to identify financial opportunities and mitigate risks within the industrial machinery sector. By maintaining transparent financial reporting and fostering strong stakeholder relationships, Rina Esquivel-Tanchico contributes significantly to Watlow's financial stability and strategic direction. The Chief Financial Officer & Partner's expertise is crucial for navigating complex financial landscapes and achieving long-term business objectives.

    Daniel Lee - Chief Operating Officer

    Daniel Lee, the Chief Operating Officer at Watlow, directs the company's global manufacturing and operational efficiency. Overseeing supply chain management, production processes, and quality control, Lee ensures seamless delivery of Watlow's industrial heating, sensor, and controller products. This role is pivotal in optimizing operational workflows and driving productivity across all manufacturing facilities. By implementing lean manufacturing principles and advanced operational strategies, Daniel Lee enhances the company's capacity to meet global demand. The Chief Operating Officer's focus on operational excellence supports Watlow's commitment to delivering reliable, high-quality thermal solutions to its worldwide customer base.
    Daniel Lee

    Gary Neal - President

    Gary Neal, the President at Watlow, holds a key leadership position driving strategic initiatives and operational oversight. Overseeing specific business segments or regions, Neal ensures the effective execution of company objectives and fosters strong market relationships. This role involves guiding teams to deliver exceptional value through Watlow's industrial heating, sensor, and controller solutions. By focusing on market penetration and customer satisfaction, Gary Neal contributes significantly to the company's overall performance and expansion. The President's leadership is instrumental in translating corporate strategy into tangible business outcomes, reinforcing Watlow's position as a global leader in thermal technology.

    Ashish Bhatnagar - Chief Technology Officer

    Ashish Bhatnagar, the Chief Technology Officer at Watlow, spearheads the company's technological innovation and product development initiatives. Overseeing research and development, Bhatnagar drives the creation of advanced industrial heaters, sensors, and controllers that define market standards. This leadership position involves translating cutting-edge research into practical, high-performance solutions for diverse industrial applications. By fostering collaboration between engineering teams and market strategists, Ashish Bhatnagar ensures that Watlow's technological roadmap aligns with customer needs and industry trends. The Chief Technology Officer's focus on next-generation thermal management systems solidifies the company's competitive edge and commitment to technological advancement.

    Erica McKeon - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Erica McKeon, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Watlow, leads the company's talent management and organizational development strategies. Overseeing all human resources functions, McKeon cultivates a positive and productive work environment that supports Watlow's mission of innovation and customer service. This leadership role involves developing programs for employee engagement, professional growth, and ensuring compliance with labor regulations across global operations. By championing a strong corporate culture, Erica McKeon attracts and retains top talent essential for designing and manufacturing advanced industrial heaters, sensors, and controllers. The Chief Human Resources Officer's focus on people empowers the workforce to drive Watlow's continued success.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Watlow Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Watlow?
    Watlow is led by Rob Gilmore (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Colleen Mettler (Chief Financial Officer) and Rina Esquivel-Tanchico (Chief Financial Officer & Partner).
    Who is part of Watlow’s executive team?
    The executive team of Watlow includes leaders such as Rob Gilmore (Chief Executive Officer), Colleen Mettler (Chief Financial Officer), Rina Esquivel-Tanchico (Chief Financial Officer & Partner) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Watlow have?
    Watlow has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Watlow’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Watlow includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer & Partner, Chief Operating Officer, President.