With Lee Wise appointed as its next president on Jan. 1, 2026, W.S. Darley & Co. is pleased to announce a ten-year succession plan. Paul C. Darley, who held the position for thirty years, is replaced by Lee Wise. In his ongoing capacities as CEO and Chairman of the Board, Lee will continue to answer to Paul, directing the long-term expansion and strategic vision of the business.
“I am honored to step into the role of President at Darley, and deeply grateful for the trust placed in me by our Board of Directors, shareholders, and colleagues. Their confidence inspires me, and I am committed to honoring our values and driving meaningful progress together,” comments Lee.
At the moment, Lee is Darley's chief financial officer. Being the first non-family member to hold the position in 118 years, his promotion to President represents an important turning point in the company's illustrious history. Lee has gained the full support of the Darley Board, management team, and the entire family due to his considerable industry expertise at Rockwell-Collins and Brunswick and his unwavering alignment with the company's essential principles.
“Our succession plan has been in progress for over a decade. Lee brings the perfect blend of corporate and defense experience, coupled with a passion for driving growth. His leadership style and ethical approach align perfectly with our professional family culture,” said Paul Darley.
Audrey Darley Welch, Vice President of Defense Supply Chain added, “All fourth-generation family members working in the business are fully united in our support of Lee. His outside perspective and proven leadership will play a critical role as we continue to professionalize the organization and pursue our next phase of growth.
In his capacity as president, Lee will supervise day-to-day operations, promote innovation, and keep fortifying ties with partners, clients, and staff. With his appointment, Darley will continue to be at the forefront of the business, providing excellence and dependability to customers who rely on its goods and services. Lee, his wife Nicole, and their three kids live in Lincolnshire, Illinois.
About W.S. Darley & Co.
Founded in 1908, W.S. Darley & Co. is a family-owned business providing innovative solutions for first responders and military organizations worldwide. With sales more than $1.3 billion, the company’s comprehensive product offerings include firefighting pumps, apparatus, equipment, and drones, all designed to meet the rigorous demands of its customers around the globe. Learn more on our websites: www.darley.com and shop.darley.com.
About the Author
Ryan Baker
Ryan Baker is a writer and associate editor with prior experiences in online and print production. Ryan is an associate editor for Firehouse with a master's degree in sciences of communication from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. He recently completed a year of teaching Intro to Public Speaking at UW-Whitewater, as part of his graduate program. Ryan acquired his bachelor's degree in journalism in 2023 from UW-Whitewater, and operates currently out of Minneapolis, MN. Baker, also writes freelances for the Ultimate Frisbee Association (UFA) in his free time, while also umpiring baseball for various ages across the Twin Cities Metro Area.