Covestro LLC recently announced that Jerry MacCleary will retire from his current position as CEO and chairman of the board, effective December 31, 2019. MacCleary’s retirement caps a 40-year journey at Covestro; he first joined the company in November 1979 as an accountant. Since then, he has led a diverse career, spanning roles in sales, marketing, general management, and strategic leadership.

In 2004, MacCleary was named head of the North American Polyurethanes business, a responsibility he maintained even after taking the helm at Covestro LLC in 2012. MacCleary was named to his current position as CEO and chairman in 2018.

“I’ve had a long, fulfilling career with this company, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished over the years,” said MacCleary. “Covestro has a vibrant new culture, a strong, diverse leadership team and a promising future here in the region—I can’t think of a better time to retire. Saying goodbye to my Covestro family won’t be easy, but I’m looking forward to starting this next chapter of my life.”

MacCleary has led the North American organization through a number of transformative changes, including Covestro’s separation from Bayer AG and establishment as an independent company in 2015. His active engagement and influential leadership reportedly played a key role in shaping the new Covestro culture and brand in the U.S.

MacCleary’s leadership extends into the chemical industry as well, where he serves as chairman of the American Chemistry Council’s board of directors and chairs its Sustainability Committee. He also serves on the board of directors for the National Association of Manufacturers and the Executive Committee for the Society of Chemical Industry.

“Our team, our business and our reputation in North America have thrived under Jerry’s leadership, and we’re grateful for his many contributions over the years,” said Markus Steilemann, Ph.D., CEO, Covestro AG. “While Jerry will retire at the end of 2019, the impact he’s had on our culture, community and industry will be felt for years to come.”

For more information, visit www.covestro.us.