Dow Announces Leadership Transition in Business Strategy

Dow has announced significant leadership changes to enhance business growth and sustainability efforts.

The appointments bring seasoned leaders to pivotal roles, ensuring continued success across the company’s operating segments.

Keith Cleason Appointed President of Packaging and Specialty Plastics

Keith Cleason has been named president of Dow’s Packaging & Specialty Plastics (P&SP) operating segment.

The appointment follows Karen S. Carter’s recent promotion to Chief Operating Officer.

Cleason assumes responsibility for P&SP’s business performance and will also oversee operations in Latin America. The transition process begins immediately.

Cleason is tasked with aligning P&SP’s growth with Dow’s sustainability goals. Leveraging his extensive industry expertise, he will focus on driving business strategy, managing resources, and optimizing assets to maintain Dow’s market leadership.

“Keith’s strategic vision and proven leadership make him an ideal choice for this role,” said Karen S. Carter. “He will play a critical role in advancing our sustainability targets while strengthening our competitive edge.”

Cleason brings over two decades of experience to his new role.

Most recently, he served as business vice president for Olefins, Aromatics & Alternatives (OA&A) and Univation Technologies, Dow’s wholly owned subsidiary specializing in licensing and catalysts.

Since joining Dow in 2001, Cleason has held key leadership positions, including global director roles for Polyethylene and strategic development within P&SP.

Jane Palmieri to Retire

Jane Palmieri, president of Dow’s Industrial Intermediates & Infrastructure (II&I) segment, will retire on March 31, 2025. With over 30 years of dedicated service, Palmieri has been instrumental in driving innovation and growth at Dow.

Under her leadership, II&I achieved annual sales exceeding $16 billion, covering portfolios such as Polyurethanes, Chlor-Alkali & Vinyl, Construction Chemicals, and Industrial Solutions. She also guided Dow’s MobilityScience™ platform and oversaw operations in Asia Pacific and Latin America.

“Jane’s visionary leadership and customer-centric approach have been transformative for Dow,” said Dow Chair and CEO Jim Fitterling.

Fitterling added, “Her contributions to innovation and business growth leave an enduring legacy.”

Palmieri held several prominent roles, including positions with Dow Building and Construction, Dow Automotive, and Dow Solar. She also served on the Sadara Board of Directors and currently sits on the Stanley Black & Decker board.

Marco ten Bruggencate Named President of Industrial Intermediates and Infrastructure

Marco ten Bruggencate will succeed Palmieri as president of Dow’s Industrial Intermediates & Infrastructure operating segment. He will also take on executive oversight for Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and India (EMEAI). This transition is effective immediately.

Ten Bruggencate has built a stellar career at Dow since joining in 2000 through the acquisition of Flexible Products Company. Most recently, he served as president of Dow EMEAI and previously as commercial vice president for Packaging & Specialty Plastics in the region.

“Marco’s leadership and deep industry knowledge make him uniquely qualified for this role,” said Karen S. Carter. “His commitment to innovation and strategic vision will drive growth and strengthen our global presence.”

As per the press release, Ten Bruggencate has held various sales, marketing, and commercial roles within Dow, including leadership positions in Dow Building Solutions and Dow Construction Chemicals.