Ashland Inc. announced that Kevin Willis, senior vice president and chief financial officer, has decided to leave Ashland to pursue another opportunity. His last day with the company will be May 16, 2025.

Willis joined Ashland in 1987 as an associate auditor in the internal audit department. He has served in various management positions of increasing responsibility, including leading teams on major projects in the business services, information technology, accounting and finance areas. Ashland stated that Willis’ departure is not the result of any disagreement with the company related to its financial statements, internal control over financial reporting, operations, policies or practices.

The company’s board of directors appointed William C. Whitaker, vice president, finance, and director, investor relations, to serve as the company’s interim chief financial officer until the board concludes its review process.  

Whitaker has served in his current capacity since January 2024. He joined Ashland in 2015 and has held several positions of increasing responsibility in corporate development, treasury, financial planning and analysis (FP&A) and investor relations. Prior to Ashland, Whitaker held various roles outside of the company within private equity and transaction advisory services. He earned a bachelor's degree in finance from The Ohio State University and holds a chartered financial analyst (CFA) designation.

The board also appointed Samuel A. Richardson, controller, to serve as vice president, controller and principal accounting officer. Richardson has served as the company’s controller since January 2020. From March 2008 to December 2019, he has held various senior accounting roles. Richardson holds a Bachelor of Science in accounting and computer information systems from West Liberty University and is a certified public accountant.

“I want to thank Kevin for his many years of service and numerous contributions to Ashland,” said Guillermo Novo, chair and chief executive officer, Ashland. “And on behalf of all our employees at Ashland, I want to wish him continued success in the future. I am confident we have a strong and capable team to ensure a smooth and seamless transition, and we are committed to maintaining stability and continuing to achieve our goals.”

Learn more about Ashland at www.ashland.com.