Patrick D. Albregts has been appointed president and chief operating officer of The Dexter Co. Allen D. Ehret who retired in January.

Dexter, Fairfield, IA, operates the second-largest foundry in Iowa and serves customers in 35 states with high-quality gray and ductile iron castings. Its primary business is manufacturing commercial washers and dryers for self-service laundromats, hotels, hospitals, schools and other on-premises laundry facilities.

Albregts will be responsible for all aspects of Dexter’s business. Previously, he had vice president of Laundry Operations at Dexter.

The company says it will continue to pursue growth opportunities for its Laundry and Foundry operations, specifically, strengthening the laundry distribution network and pursuing new market opportunities for the foundry operation.

Rex J. Crockett, chairman of Dexter, commented, “We believe Pat Albregts is particularly well suited to lead this company in the future. His experience includes successfully managing multi-million dollar businesses for some of America’s most respected companies. His demonstrated management competence, team building capabilities and communication skills will serve him well in this demanding new role.”

Albregts joined Dexter in August 2004 after 22 years in numerous sales, marketing, and general management positions with companies including The Kohler Co., Rubbermaid and IBM. He holds bachelor and masters degrees from the University of Wisconsin in Madison.