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KYZEN, the global leader in innovative environmentally responsible cleaning chemistries, announces the retirement of Tom Forsythe, Executive Vice President, effective December 31, 2024, after more than three decades of service to the company and the electronics manufacturing industry.
Forsythe joined KYZEN in 1992, just two years after its founding, and has played a pivotal role in the company’s global growth and industry leadership. Over the past 33 years, Forsythe has helped shape KYZEN’s identity, serving first as Vice President of Sales for North America before moving into the Executive Vice President role, where he led global marketing, sales, and financial functions.
A familiar face at industry events, technical conferences, and manufacturing shows around the world, Forsythe became known not only for his deep technical knowledge of precision cleaning processes for electronics, advanced packaging, and metal finishing, but also for his friendly, approachable leadership style. Whether sharing a story, offering advice, or helping a customer solve a cleaning process challenge, Forsythe’s reputation as KYZEN’s global “Ambassador” is well-earned.
“It’s hard to put into words the impact Tom has had on KYZEN, our customers, and the entire industry,” said Kyle Doyel, KYZEN’s President and CEO. “Tom has always brought a unique combination of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and personal warmth to everything he does. His dedication and passion have been central to KYZEN’s culture and success. We are grateful for his incredible contributions and are excited to continue working with him as a valued member of our Board of Directors.”
Forsythe’s commitment to industry service has also been remarkable. A member of IPC since 1992 and an active member of SMTA for more than 33 years, Forsythe served on the SMTA Board of Directors and the IPC Expo Steering Committee, helping to advance technical education and innovation across the global electronics manufacturing community.
Reflecting on Forsythe’s career, Dr. Mike Bixenman, KYZEN’s CTO and Co-Founder, remarked: “Tom has been an invaluable partner and friend throughout KYZEN’s journey. From the early days, he brought vision and energy to our team, helping us build a company grounded in innovation and care for our customers. His contributions to our industry – from technical leadership to mentoring the next generation – will leave a lasting legacy. It has been a privilege to work alongside him, and I look forward to continuing that relationship in his new role as a member of KYZEN’s Board of Directors.”
Before joining KYZEN, Forsythe managed an industrial cleaning business for W.R. Grace, specializing in aeronautics cleaning applications. His earlier career as a U.S. Navy helicopter pilot gave him unique insights into precision processes and mission-critical performance, which carried over into his work at KYZEN and within the industry. Forsythe holds a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Mathematics & Engineering from the U.S. Naval Academy and an MBA from Boston University.
Though stepping back from day-to-day responsibilities, Forsythe’s influence and legacy will remain embedded in KYZEN’s culture and customer-first approach. Forsythe will also continue to represent KYZEN at select industry events, including IPC APEX EXPO 2025, where KYZEN will celebrate his remarkable career and contributions to the field of electronics cleaning.
