On October 1, 2026, American Vanguard Corporation announced a leadership transition within its finance department. The company’s board of directors appointed Matthew Horwath, age 43, as the new Chief Financial Officer, effective immediately. Horwath will succeed David Johnson, who is stepping down from the CFO role.
Horwath joins American Vanguard from Kustom US, Inc., where he served as CFO from January to June 2026. Prior to that, he spent nearly eight years at FARO Technologies, most recently serving as CFO. FARO was acquired by AMETEK, Inc. in July 2025. Horwath’s background includes experience in global finance, mergers and acquisitions, and capital markets. He holds a Master of Accountancy and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the University of North Florida and the University of Central Florida, respectively, and is a Certified Public Accountant.
In connection with his appointment, the Compensation Committee approved Horwath’s compensation package. This includes an annual base salary of $450,000 and a target annual bonus equal to 60% of his base salary. Additionally, he will receive a relocation bonus of $6,667 per month and a travel allowance of $10,000 per month, both paid over 15 months. Horwath was also granted an option to purchase 150,000 shares of the company’s common stock and an award of 100,000 restricted shares, with both awards vesting evenly over three years.
David Johnson will remain with the company in a different capacity. He has been appointed Chief Accounting Officer and will serve in that role until the company files its annual report on Form 10-K for its 2026 fiscal year, expected in March 2027. Following that, Johnson will continue in a non-executive position until September 30, 2027. If his employment terminates under specific conditions, he will be entitled to severance benefits outlined in the company’s Executive Severance Plan.
