AkzoNobel appoints Jeff Jirak as Director of Powder Coatings business

Jeff Jirak is the new Director of AkzoNobel’s Powder Coatings business. He’ll be located at the company’s North American regional headquarters in Nashville, US.

Joining from Valtris Specialty Chemicals – where he’s been Chief Commercial Officer for the last three years – Jeff has more than 30 years of experience in the performance materials and specialty chemicals sector.

He’ll lead the global strategic direction of AkzoNobel’s innovative powder coatings portfolio across a diverse range of end markets, including architectural, automotive, industrial, general trade coaters and functional.

“I’m delighted to be joining such a diverse business with passionate colleagues all over the world,” says Jeff. “It’s incredible to see the depth of technology and sustainability embedded in our powder coatings products. The business continues to invest in growth, our capacity and developing our talented people. I’m excited to play a key role in continuing to bring product innovations to our customers, as well as exploring new opportunities.”

Jeff previously held senior positions at DuPont, Chemours and Nouryon (formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals), and specialized in the strategic growth of high-performance materials, polymers and coatings. He’ll apply this expertise to help drive innovation, sustainability and commercial excellence in his new role.

He succeeds Daniela Vlad, who is now Director of AkzoNobel’s Industrial Coatings business.