Grace Performance Chemicals has named Michael S. Richardson worldwide Quality Assurance manager for its Darex business unit. Darex is a leading supplier of can and closure sealants and coatings to the packaged food and beverage industry worldwide. As Quality Assurance manager, Richardson will provide quick response to customer needs, design and implement best-in-class QA/QC programs, and continually pursue product, manufacturing, and service improvements that directly impact Darex customers. He will also work with Quality Assurance managers in other Grace businesses to define "Best Practices" and develop Grace-wide Quality Management systems to ensure consistent quality. Richardson brings more than 20 years of experience in operations and managing Quality Management systems to his new position. Prior to joining Grace in 1996, he was plant manager with the Hollingsworth & Vose Co. and held Quality Management positions with several companies, including Brush Wellman, International Paper, and Colgate Palmolive.

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