IDEAL Industries Inc.

IDEAL Industries, founded in 1916 in a kitchen, is now a global, diversified business. The company, based in Sycamore, Ill., designs and manufactures products and tools for the electrical, wire processing, data communications, aerospace, automotive and construction industries. It has experienced great growth in recent years. Non-family member Jim James, who has served as CEO since 2008, took over as chairman from third-generation member Dave Juday in 2014.

Today the IDEAL family comprises about 50 members; there are 30 family shareholders, who represent the third through fifth generations. No family members serve in management roles at the company.

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