[ST. LOUIS, MO]—April 2, 2025—Federal International Inc., a private, family-owned business founded in 1914 and with a footprint in the recycling, manufacturing and sustainability industries, announced today the promotion of Michael Karl, fifth-generation family member, to the role of President & CEO. Michael will join the Federal International Board of Directors and oversee the company’s diverse portfolio of business unit brands, which includes Federal Recycling & Waste Solutions, Federal Foam Technologies and Federal Eco Foam, with each unit’s president reporting to him.
“We are excited to have Michael lead with new ideas and a forward-thinking perspective to help us achieve growth plans and take us forward into the next phase of our success,” said Debra Karl and Diane Zenk, fourth-generation family owners of Federal International. “He is committed to being present for our business units and helping them be successful through collaboration and support.”
Michael has worked at Federal International for three and a half years as Manager of Accounting & Shared Services, supporting all business units with financial planning and analysis, tax and audit compliance, and strategic projects such as optimizing operations, capital planning and acquisitions.
In his new role, Michael will oversee all business financials, implement strategic goals and initiatives from ownership, analyze and approve CAPEX expenditures and strategic initiatives such as acquisitions, and further institute the One Federal vision of enhanced transparency, communication, and commercial and operational collaboration among the company’s business units.
Mel Lefkowitz, Federal International’s former owner and President & CEO from 1982-2018 who grew the company from its humble recycling roots into a diversified, global business, is proud to see his grandson take on leadership of the company. “Family is at the heart of the business, and I’m very happy to see our legacy and tradition continue with Michael,” Mel said. “We as a family have been thoughtfully building toward this transition, and to see it come to fruition is a very gratifying moment for me.”
Prior to Federal International, Michael spent the first six years of his career with audit, tax and business consulting firm RubinBrown. As Manager of Business Tax Services, he implemented tax planning strategies for businesses, trusts and individuals and analyzed transactions and tax law changes for potential impact at entity and ownership levels for his clients. His clients at RubinBrown included multi-generational family businesses.
Michael graduated from the University of Missouri Trulaske College of Business with both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Missouri Society of Certified Public Accountants (MOCPA).
“I’m honored to continue my family’s legacy and excited to collaborate with our teams to further enhance our products and services,” Michael said. “I’m passionate about the business and I see a bright future as we continue to exceed the growing demands of our customers, focusing on sustainable design, manufacturing and operations.”
About Federal International Inc.
Founded in 1914, Federal International, Inc. is a private, family-owned business headquartered in St. Louis, MO and the parent company of business units Federal Recycling & Waste Solutions, Federal Foam Technologies and Federal Eco Foam. For 100+ years, our team has provided unique value and solutions for customers across all industries with sustainable foam products; recycling and waste management services; and high-performing, innovative foam, fiber and plastic components. We partner with businesses across the globe to achieve their goals and reduce environmental footprint by delivering outstanding products and services.
