Speciality Sessions

Most chemical industry leaders don’t get the recognition they deserve — but Jenn Klein is changing that. As CEO of SOCMA, she reveals how the specialty chemical sector touches our daily lives in more ways than we realise, from water safety to electronics, and why understanding this industry’s power is crucial for the future.In this candid conversation, Jen shares her unexpected journey into chemicals, from political science to industry advocate, and explains why her passion lies in supporting the unsung heroes behind the products we use every day. You'll discover how the sector's nimbleness and problem-solving mindset are shaping resilient, innovative companies that are investing strategically despite global uncertainties.ChaptersIntro: Leadership & Influence - 00:00SOCMA & CEO Role - 05:24Leadership Transition - 07:33Sector Pathways - 09:13Sustainability Connection - 11:24Unique Industry Traits - 13:15Value Chain Communication - 15:25Underappreciated Areas - 17:02Attracting Talent - 19:10Career Growth - 20:36SOCMA Advocacy - 22:10Industry Voice - 24:03Regulatory Challenges - 25:01Hazard vs. Risk - 27:22Manufacturing Trends - 29:26Agility in Disruption - 31:47Reshoring Momentum - 33:21Talent & Diversity - 36:09Mentorship & Leadership - 38:23Self-Awareness & Learning - 40:44Embracing Failure - 43:12Life Mantra - 44:34

In this episode, Bernd Schneider, Global Co-Head of Chemicals at Stifel, discusses the intricacies of M&A in the chemical industry, addressing misconceptions, the impact of ownership changes, and the evolving landscape of buyers. He shares insights on what makes a good chemical asset, the challenges faced in post-M&A scenarios, and offers advice for CEOs navigating ownership changes. Bernd also reflects on his unique journey from a polymer chemist to investment banking, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and continuous learning in career development.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Bernd Schneider and Stiefel02:47 Understanding the Chemicals Sector and Its Opportunities03:46 Misconceptions About M&A in the Chemical Industry05:19 Impact of Ownership Change on Employees07:20 Advice for CEOs During Ownership Changes09:43 Common Surprises in Post-M&A Scenarios10:50 Shifts in the Chemical Asset Buying Landscape12:05 Evaluating Value in the Bio Landscape12:29 Strategic vs Financial Buyers13:54 Current Market Dynamics in Chemical Assets15:04 Characteristics of Good Chemical Assets18:21 Future Predictions for M&A Activity21:56 Transitioning from Chemistry to Finance26:59 Advice to My Younger Self

In this episode, Natasha Klymczuk interviews Martin John, CEO of KRAHN Chemie Group, discussing his transition from a large manufacturing company to a more agile distribution role. Martin shares insights on leadership, the importance of chemistry in various industries, and the challenges of adapting to a new organizational structure. He emphasizes the significance of building relationships, enabling value, and learning from experiences in the chemical industry.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Martin John and KRAHN Chemie Group00:55 Transitioning from Production to Distribution05:56 Finding Passion in Chemistry09:19 Leadership Lessons from a Diverse Career11:23 Navigating the Shift to Agile Organizations13:28 Balancing Progress and Patience as a CEO15:14 Lessons Learned in Leadership18:03 The Marathon of Change19:45 Listening to Understand22:42 Deciding When to Act24:26 Navigating Structural Changes27:00 Skills for Future Leaders29:19 Advice for Young Professionals31:30 Next Episode

In this episode of Specialty Sessions, host Natasha Klymczuk speaks with Antje Gerber, EVP INTERNATIONAL CHEMICALS at Sasol, about the company's transformation in the chemical industry, its South African heritage, and the importance of leadership during challenging times. Antje shares insights on managing change, fostering employee morale, and the need for optimism and realism in leadership. The conversation also touches on the role of chemicals in energy transition and the significance of diverse experiences in leadership roles.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Sasol and Antje Gerber00:51 Sasol's South African Heritage and Global Perspective02:27 Transformation in the Chemical Industry04:45 Managing Change and Employee Morale08:25 Cultural Shifts and Leadership in Transformation10:49 Balancing Optimism and Realism in Leadership12:11 Understanding Seysol's Global Impact13:06 Cultural Differences in Leadership14:47 Chemicals and Energy Transition15:37 Leadership Adaptability Across Different Companies18:51 The Importance of Diverse Experience in Leadership20:24 Passion for the Chemical Industry21:28 Future Opportunities in the Chemical Sector22:42 Advice for the Next Generation in Chemistry

In this episode, Marcus Jordan, CEO of IMCD, shares insights on the importance of distribution careers, the transition from technical to commercial roles, and the value of diverse experiences in building a successful career. He emphasizes the need for enthusiasm in leadership, the role of AI in transforming distribution, and the significance of work-life balance. Marcus encourages young talent to consider distribution as a dynamic and exciting career path, highlighting the industry's agility and the opportunities it presents for future-proofing careers.TakeawaysPeople are the biggest asset in any organization.Distribution offers diverse career opportunities.Transitioning from technical to commercial roles can be rewarding.Diverse experiences enhance leadership capabilities.Managing enthusiasm in teams is crucial for success.Communication with management is key for career growth.AI can streamline processes in distribution.Agility in distribution allows for adaptation to market changes.Work-life balance is essential for effective leadership.Encouraging young talent is vital for the industry's future.Chapters00:00 Inspiring the Next Generation04:20 The Value of Distribution Careers10:37 Transitioning from Technical to Commercial Roles13:01 The Importance of Diverse Experiences20:15 Managing Enthusiasm in Leadership21:21 Navigating Career Changes22:57 The Role of AI in Distribution27:13 Future-Proofing Careers in Distribution28:57 Agility and Team Dynamics30:20 Work-Life Balance as a Leader33:12 Encouraging Young Talent in Distribution

In this conversation, Andrew Warmington discusses the contrasting marketing strategies of large corporations and small to medium enterprises (SMEs). He highlights the challenges SMEs face in gaining media coverage compared to bigger players with substantial marketing budgets. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of unique contributions from lesser-known companies in attracting media attention.Takeaways- Big players have larger marketing budgets and dedicated teams.- Editors are interested in featuring unique companies.- SMEs don't need to struggle to get media coverage.- Networking at industry shows is crucial to build trade media relationships.- Unique contributions can attract media interest.- Editors appreciate new and interesting stories.- Marketing strategies vary significantly between large and small companies.- Engagement with media can lead to better coverage for SMEs.

In this episode, Natasha Klymczuk interviews Julia Schlenz, President of Europe, Middle East, Africa, and India at Dow. Julia shares her unique career journey from public relations to the chemical industry, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, collaboration, and psychological safety in leadership. She discusses the challenges and opportunities within the chemical sector, particularly in relation to innovation and regulatory constraints. Julia also highlights the distinctive culture at Dow that fosters integrity and performance, and offers valuable advice for early career talent and her younger self.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Julia Schlenz and Dow01:56 Career Journey: From Public Relations to Chemicals05:58 Building Credibility in a Technical Environment09:58 Evolution of Leadership: From Proving to Supporting14:01 Creating Psychological Safety in Teams17:54 Stepping Out of Comfort Zones21:58 Supporting Early Career Talent26:02 The Distinctive Culture at Dow29:57 Opportunities and Challenges in the Chemical Sector34:03 Innovation and the Future of Chemicals35:58 Advice to Younger Self

In this conversation, James Clews, Managing Director of Technikraft, discusses the various career paths available, emphasising that there is no singular right choice. He highlights the advantages of working in small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly the flexibility and quick decision-making that come with smaller teams and structures.

In this inaugural episode of Speciality Sessions, host Natasha Klymczuk interviews David Jukes, CEO of Univar Solutions. David shares his unique journey into the chemical industry, emphasising the importance of education and the need for better communication about career opportunities in chemistry. He discusses the noble nature of the profession, the challenges faced by the industry, and the role of innovation and resilience in overcoming these obstacles. David also reflects on his leadership experiences, the impact of AI on the future of work, and the essential value of chemistry to society. He concludes with advice for the younger generation, encouraging them to trust their instincts and be authentically themselves.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Speciality Sessions00:58 David's Journey into the Chemical Industry06:26 The Importance of Education in Chemistry11:30 Chemistry: A Good and Noble Profession16:35 Leadership Lessons from David's Career25:02 Navigating Challenges in the Chemical Industry34:11 Innovation and Resilience in Chemistry39:04 The Role of AI in the Future of Leadership47:22 The Value of Chemistry to Society52:11 Final Thoughts and Advice for the Younger Generation

TRAILER: Speciality Sessions, host Natasha Klymczuk interviews David Jukes, CEO of Universe Solutions. David shares his unique journey into the chemical industry, emphasising the importance of education and the need for better communication about career opportunities in chemistry.