Akron, Ohio -- Omnova Solutions has promoted John Wei to the position of vice president, Omnova Solutions China and general manager, Omnova Decorative Products China. Wei will also retain his current role of vice president, Omnova Performance Chemicals Asia.
Wei has been with the group since 1995 starting as director, Corporate Business Development and serving as director, Strategic Business Development for Omnova's Performance Chemicals unit for six years, achieving his recent position in 2005.
Omnova operates two Decorative Products plants near Shanghai, in Minhang and Taicang. These businesses produce coated polyurethane and vinyl upholstery, primarily for Chinese automotive original equipment manufacturers and regional upholstery, consumer garment and accessories markets, said Omnova's announcement.
But Omnova added that these units "have an increasing focus on the North American residential and contract furniture markets and automotive aftermarket."
Omnova acquired full ownership of these former joint venture businesses at the beginning of 2008.
Omnova also has a technical sales and service office in Shanghai for its Asian Performance Chemicals business. This sells emulsion polymers and speciality chemicals into a variety of markets, including non-wovens, tape and adhesives, tyres, coatings and textiles.
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