MSA Safety Appoints Qorvo CEO Robert Bruggeworth as Board Chairman
MSA Safety’s board elected Robert A. Bruggeworth as Chairman effective May 8, 2026, succeeding Nish Vartanian, who remains on the board as a director. Bruggeworth, a director since 2007 and current President and CEO of Qorvo, brings decades of executive experience to the firm’s $1.9 billion global safety operations.
1. Election of New Chairman
On May 8, 2026, MSA Safety’s Board of Directors elected Robert A. Bruggeworth as Chairman, succeeding Nish Vartanian. Vartanian will continue to support the company in his capacity as a director, ensuring continuity in board oversight.
2. Bruggeworth's Industry Expertise
Bruggeworth has served on MSA’s board since 2007 and as Lead Independent Director since 2017. He currently leads Qorvo as President and CEO and previously directed RF Micro Devices and TriQuint Semiconductor, holding a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Wilkes University.
3. Succession and Governance Implications
This leadership transition reinforces board continuity and leverages Bruggeworth’s global technology experience to guide MSA’s advanced safety solutions business, which reported $1.9 billion in 2025 revenues across more than 40 international locations. Vartanian’s ongoing directorship preserves institutional knowledge and strategic counsel.