W.S. Darley & Co. Names Lee Wise as New President

Lee Wise was appointed as the next president of W.S. Darley & Co., effective Jan. 1, 2026.

Wise, the first non-family member to serve as president in the company's 118-year history. He is replacing Paul C. Darley, who held the position for 30 years.

Darley will remain CEO and chairman of the board, with Wise reporting to Darley as part of a 10-year succession plan. 

Prior to the change, Wise served as Darley's chief financial officer. He also worked at a leading aerospace company, Rockwell-Collins, and marine products manufacturer Brunswick.

“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,” Wise said.

Wise will oversee day-to-day operations while leading Darley's product innovation and coordinating with partners.

"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," the company said in a statement. 

“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,” Darley said.

"All fourth-generation family members working in the business are fully united in our support of Lee," Audrey Darley Welch, vice president of Defense Supply Chain said. "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."

Wise and his wife, Nicole, live in Lincolnshire, IL, with their three children.