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Company values diverse approach to board of directors as new member brings new perspective along with years of experience and knowledge
SAN FRANCISCO — April, 23, 2013 — Wilbur-Ellis Company announced today that Alan Barton, CEO of Lehigh Technologies, has joined the company’s board of directors. Wilbur-Ellis is a marketer and distributor of agricultural products, animal feed, and specialty chemicals and ingredients.
“Alan has deep expertise in the businesses we operate in, and we are excited that he is joining our board of directors,” said John P. Thacher, Wilbur-Ellis’ president and chief executive officer.
Barton currently serves as CEO of Lehigh Technologies, and previously worked at Rohm & Haas (R&H) for 24 years. While at R&H, Barton oversaw the company’s $2 billion coatings business, and then its $1 billion Asia-Pacific business, eventually becoming executive vice president for the Americas. A chemist by training, Barton’s experiences throughout his career in R&D, sales, marketing, distribution, and strategic planning make him a natural fit for Wilbur-Ellis’ businesses.
“I believe that Alan’s technical and leadership experience will truly benefit the board and our company,” said Thacher. “Several of our leaders and partners can attest to his market-driven tenacity, natural sense of innovation, knowledge of our businesses and the complexities of distribution in the Asia-Pacific region. He will be a great addition to our board.” Currently, Wilbur-Ellis is the largest marketer and distributor of specialty chemicals and ingredients in Asia-Pacific through its Connell Brothers Division.
Barton has previously served on the boards of various companies including Energy Conversion Devices Inc. (2008 – 2012), Pulse Electronics Corporation (2004 – 2010), and PQ Corporation (2002 – 2003). He currently serves on the board for Technitrol. Barton is a graduate of Oxford (B.A. Chemistry) and Harvard (Ph.D. Organic Chemistry) universities.
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About Wilbur-Ellis Company
Founded in 1921, Wilbur-Ellis is a leading international marketer and distributor of agricultural products, animal feed and specialty chemicals and ingredients. By developing strong relationships, making strategic market investments and capitalizing on new opportunities, Wilbur-Ellis has continued to grow its business with sales now over $3 billion.
For more information, please visit www.wilburellis.com