Key Highlights

  • Cole’s compensation includes a $375,000 annual base salary and a long-term incentive grant with a total value of $300,000.
  • She succeeds Judith Bacchus, who is retiring after holding the role for over a decade.
  • Cole previously held senior HR roles at a Fortune 500 industrial company.

Kennametal (NYSE: KMT) announced a key leadership change in its human resources function, naming Amanda Cole as its new Chief Human Resources Officer. The appointment reflects the company’s ongoing efforts to enhance its executive team as it navigates industry challenges and workforce evolution.

Leadership Transition Announced

Kennametal disclosed Cole’s appointment on June 30, 2026, with her role commencing on July 21. She will assume responsibilities previously held by Judith Bacchus, who has been with the company since 2011. Bacchus’ departure marks a significant transition in Kennametal’s HR leadership.

Cole’s Professional Background

Prior to joining Kennametal, Cole spent nearly two decades in senior HR positions at a Fortune 500 industrial company. Her most recent role involved overseeing human resources for a major business segment, where she focused on talent strategy and operational alignment. Her experience spans workforce development, organizational design, and leadership succession planning.

Compensation Package Details

Cole’s employment agreement includes an annual base salary of $375,000 and a one-time sign-on cash bonus of $58,000. On August 1, 2026, she will receive a long-term incentive grant with a total value of $300,000, consisting of Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The grant will vest in two parts: $200,000 after two years and $100,000 after three.

Beginning in fiscal 2027, she will be eligible for additional awards with a target grant date total value of $375,000, split between 40% performance-based units and 60% RSUs.

Bacchus’ Retirement Plans

Judith Bacchus, who has served as Kennametal’s top HR executive since 2011, will retire later in 2026. Her departure follows a long tenure at the company, where she played a key role in shaping its human resources strategy. The transition period will allow for continuity in leadership as Cole assumes her new responsibilities.

Employment Agreement Terms

Cole’s contract outlines standard provisions, including confidentiality, non-compete, and intellectual property assignment clauses. In the event of termination without cause, she is entitled to severance equivalent to 12 months of her base salary. If a change in control occurs, her severance could reach up to twice her base salary and target bonus.

Stock and Incentive Structure

Under Kennametal’s 2024 Stock and Incentive Plan, Cole’s long-term awards will vest over a three-year period. Her target bonus for fiscal 2027 is set at 50% of her base salary, with an opportunity to earn up to 200% based on performance metrics. The structure aligns her incentives with the company’s long-term growth objectives.

Industry Implications

The appointment underscores Kennametal’s commitment to reinforcing its HR leadership as the industrial sector faces shifting workforce dynamics. Cole’s background in talent management and organizational development may support the company’s efforts to enhance employee engagement and operational efficiency. Her role will be critical in driving Kennametal’s strategic initiatives amid evolving market demands.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Please consult a licensed financial adviser before making investment decisions.