San Francisco, California - Former Bayer MaterialScience executive Azita Owlia has joined Connell Brothers, which says it is the largest marketer and distributor of speciality chemicals and ingredients in Asia-Pacific.
Owlia will oversee and expand Connell's business operations in North Asia, including mainland China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea and Taiwan.
The newly created position of vice president, North Asia, reflects the dramatic growth of Connell Brothers' business during the past decade, the company said in a 29 Nov news release. North Asia now represents a very significant share of the company's overall sales revenue. Owlia, who will be based in Hong Kong, will support and strengthen the company's business platform in the region.
"As we continue to grow our business and services for customers and suppliers, North Asia, under Owlia's leadership, will be a key focus area for the company," said Ted Eliot, president of Connell Brothers. "Owlia will play a critical role in identifying and promoting new opportunities and will develop a strategic direction for each country and market segment."
Connell Brothers praised the former BMS senior vice president's track record of "building dynamic multinational teams, implementing long-term strategies and developing innovative market solutions."
Owlia has a PhD in Chemistry, an MBA, and more than 20 years of industry experience. In her most recent role with Bayer MaterialScience, she led a polyurethane and thermoplastic urethane business with more than 850 employees and sales of more than $1000 million. She has also held various vice president and management roles during her tenure with the company.
"I am delighted to be a part of Connell Brothers and look forward to working with the accomplished teams and country managers to build on the company's more than 100 years of success," Owlia said.
San Francisco-based Connell Brothers distributes speciality chemicals, including those for polyurethane, through 36 offices located throughout Asia.
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