Covestro LLC announced that its current president, Dr. Haakan Jonsson, will also take over as chairman of the board of directors, effective January 1, 2020. In this role, he will succeed Jerry MacCleary, who announced plans to retire at the end of 2019.
Jonsson joined Covestro in 1992 as a scientist, working at the company’s North American headquarters in Pittsburgh. His strong technical background and passion for innovation paved the way for a diverse career, spanning both commercial and production operations.
Watch a video interview with Jonsson, who shares more about his personal background, career highlights and what he is most proud of at Covestro: https://youtu.be/UjCVmtBhb8Q.
Jonsson has held leadership roles in manufacturing, innovation, supply chain and business development—opportunities that have taken him throughout the United States and around the globe. In 2017, his career came full circle when he returned to Pittsburgh to take on his current position as president.
“Just as Pittsburgh is ‘home,’ my Covestro colleagues are my family – so I’m incredibly excited for the opportunity to take on a greater leadership role here in the U.S.,” said Jonsson.
“We have everything we need to be successful – a vibrant culture shaped by a diverse, innovative team; a passion for developing sustainable solutions; and a long tradition of industry and community engagement. I’m looking forward to building on all of these as we work toward a brighter future together.”
Over the years, Jonsson has served as a member of several industry and company boards, including the Institute of Polymer Processing, Plastics Europe Germany and Paltough Industries Ltd. in Israel. Currently, he serves on the board for Variety the Children’s Charity of Pittsburgh.
Jonsson holds a Master of Science in chemical engineering and a Ph.D. in polymer technology—both from the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden.
“It has been an honor and a privilege leading the U.S. organization, and saying goodbye won’t be easy,” said MacCleary. “But I take comfort in knowing that this team will continue building from a strong foundation, guided by Haakan’s capable leadership.”
About Covestro LLC:
Covestro LLC is one of the leading producers of high-performance polymers in North America and is part of the global Covestro business, which is among the world’s largest polymer companies with 2018 sales of EUR 14.6 billion. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, electrical and electronics, and healthcare industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics and the chemical industry itself. Covestro has 30 production sites worldwide and employed approximately 16,800 people at the end of 2018.
Find more information at www.covestro.us.