Transforming a 150-year-old chemical business into a technology-driven solutions provider requires both innovative thinking and strategic agility. Michael Lefenfeld, President and CEO of Hexion Incorporated, joins host Victoria Meyer to discuss the company’s evolution from its roots as Borden to leading the engineered wood industry with advanced adhesives, resins, and AI-powered manufacturing systems. Michael shares how Hexion’s focus on customer-centered solutions, digitalization, and strategic partnerships is driving rapid change, while also navigating global market pressures and evolving workforce needs.

Victoria and Michael explore the role of artificial intelligence in modern manufacturing, from boosting product quality and sustainability to supporting workforce upskilling. The conversation extends to lessons in leadership and innovation, including Michael’s advice for young professionals on staying curious and building diverse teams. This episode offers actionable insights for chemical industry professionals facing transformation and rising expectations in an increasingly complex market.

Victoria and Michael discuss the following topics:

• How Hexion evolved from a 150-year-old chemical supplier into a customer-focused, technology-driven solutions company.
• Running a chemical business with PE speed: fast decisions, strategic pivots, and compressed timelines.
• Leveraging partnerships and external innovation
• Deploying AI systems to boost operational efficiency and reshape workforce skills.
• Building successful chemical careers through curiosity, diverse thinking, and strategic humility.

Killer Quote: "We believe that there are great innovations everywhere, and we want to be partnered with the best in what they do and provide our capabilities, our strengths to make them get to market faster.” - Michael Lefenfeld

00:00 Innovative Career in Tech Transformation

03:18 "Journey into Private Equity"

07:30 Hexion's Innovation-Driven Transformation

10:25 Localized Manufacturing Minimizes Tariff Impact

16:16 Hexion's Innovative AI and Sustainability

18:46 Introducing SmartPress: AI-Driven System

21:07 AI-Enhanced Custom Glue Solutions

24:13 "AI Empowers Uniform Operator Upskilling"

27:48 Stay Curious, Ask Questions

30:37 Interdisciplinary Innovation Key

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Leadership transitions can shape the future of entire industries. With Jennifer Abril stepping into the role of President and CEO at the American Cleaning Institute (ACI), host Victoria Meyer spotlights Jennifer’s unique leadership journey, her approach to driving transformation, and the qualities that make her a strong fit for ACI. Through selected highlights from previous conversations, listeners gain insights into Jennifer’s background in advocacy, coalition building, and the importance of strategic alignment across diverse industry groups.

The episode unpacks key themes such as the challenges of balancing member needs, the strategic acquisition of industry events, and how trade associations are adapting to dynamic supply chains and shifting market demands. With a look at signs of industry change and priorities for the future, the conversation offers valuable perspective for chemical industry professionals interested in leadership, organizational transformation, and what lies ahead for ACI under Jennifer’s guidance.

Get additional insights on:

• Leadership in Transition: Jennifer Abril's move from SOCMA to the American Cleaning Institute
• How SOCMA and ACI connect diverse members and shape specialty chemical manufacturing's future.
• Jennifer's approach to reinventing trade association value—from reclaiming events to meeting evolving member needs.
• Industry responses to localization, reshoring, and policy shifts in building adaptable business models.
• Key trends and regulatory impacts chemical professionals should monitor under Jennifer's leadership.

00:00 "Five Questions with Jennifer Brill"

05:27 "Future Insights & Signposts"

07:07 Unexpected Career Path in Chemistry

13:20 Industry Insight and Responsive Solutions

16:01 Rise in Localization and Reshoring Efforts

17:49 Federal Workforce Transition Challenges

Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube

***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player.
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***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com