GRAND RAPIDS, MI - Steelcase Inc., a manufacturer of office and contract furniture, named James Keane as its next CEO.

Keane, who also will retain his title as Steelcase president, will be responsible for product development, manufacturing, marketing, sales and distribution for all Steelcase brands around the world.

He will succeed long-time CEO James Hackett in March 2014 at the beginning of the company's next fiscal year. Hackett announced his plans to retire from Steelcase effective Feb. 28, 2014, in July. Hackett was recently elected to Ford Motor Company's Board of Directors.

"Throughout his 16 years at the company, Jim has proven to be a strong leader with a passion for winning and a deep understanding of the business," said Rob Pew, Board Chair, Steelcase Inc. "His creativity and strategic execution make him a great steward of the Steelcase legacy and the right choice to lead Steelcase into a future of continued growth and tremendous technological change."

Keane's career with Steelcase has included leadership roles in research and development, corporate strategy, information technology and finance. He was appointed president in 2006. A Chicago native, Keane has a master's in management degree from Kellogg Graduate School at Northwestern University and a bachelor of science degree in accounting from the University of Illinois.

"I've had the pleasure of working with Jim for many years, and he understands what is needed to drive innovation in today's globally competitive environment," said Jim Hackett, who will serve as vice chair for one year as part of the transition and also remain on Steelcase's Board of Directors. "His results-oriented approach and proven track record will only continue to grow the business and deliver increased value to the company and our shareholders."