OrthoLite names Marius Wirtz as new CEO amid global expansion

Coats Group plc has appointed Marius Wirtz as the new CEO of OrthoLite. He will take up the role on 15 July, reporting to Pasquale Abruzzese, the footwear CEO and group chief operating officer of Coats. The move follows Coats’ acquisition of OrthoLite last October for $770 million. Wirtz brings extensive experience in materials and specialty chemicals to his new position. His background includes deep expertise in polyurethane applications for footwear. He will be based in Hong Kong to lead the company.

OrthoLite, founded by Glenn Barrett in 1997, has continued to expand under Coats’ ownership. In November 2025, the company opened OrthoLite North Vietnam. A month later, Marco Grott was hired to head its operations in Indonesia.

Glenn Barrett, the founder, will transition to a senior advisor role at Coats on the same day Wirtz begins his tenure. The leadership change comes as OrthoLite integrates further into Coats Group. Wirtz’s global experience and technical knowledge are set to guide the company’s next phase. Barrett’s advisory role will provide continuity during the transition.