Leadership Team at Americhem

John Richard brings 30 years of experience to Americhem leading high potential, high growth, businesses in various industrial end use markets in a variety of roles that have included Manufacturing, Process Engineering, Business Development, Finance, Sales, and Marketing. John has a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Delaware, Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Virginia Tech, and MBA in Strategy and Finance from Columbia Business School. He is passionate about applying his experiences within our organization and working with the highly motivated and results oriented management team at Americhem.

Matt Miklos brings 30+ years of experience in Management and Leadership roles in Product Innovation & Technology, Sales, and Marketing for the Polymer Manufacturing industry to Americhem. Matt achieved his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Baldwin-Wallace College and has utilized his degree and experience to successfully drive growth strategies for Americhem. Providing direction and support for strategic product development, custom manufacturing projects, and next generation product research, Matt’s mission is to enhance Americhem’s new business sales goals.

Vimal Sharma brings 30+ years of experience in Managing roles in Technology, Product Development, and Commercial Sales for the Chemical and Plastics industries to Americhem. Vimal has achieved his Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology and his Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Purdue University. Today, he utilizes his education, experience, and expertise in leading the global business management functions of Americas and EMEA. As part of the global executive team, Vimal is integral in developing business unit goals and long-term planning.

Mark Juve brings 10+ years of experience in commercial sales and leadership specifically in the plastics industry to Americhem. Mark has achieved his Bachelor’s Degree in Finance with a minor in Leadership Development from the University of Dayton. He utilizes his degree and experience throughout the organization to lead the commercial sales activities for North America. Mark manages a large team of commercial leaders that successfully implement new business development strategies, ensure that customer needs are being met and exceeded, and custom develop new products for OEMs.

Barto Du Plessis joined Americhem in 2022, bringing with him over 30 years of extensive global leadership experience in the plastics and chemicals industries. He earned a National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry from Vaal University of Technology in Vanderbijlpark, South Africa, and holds a Certificate in Company Direction from the Institute of Directors in London, England. Throughout his career, he has honed his industry expertise through leadership roles across Europe, Asia, and the United States. Barto’s exceptional track record in driving business growth serves as the foundation for spearheading Americhem’s expanding European operations. His strategic approach emphasizes the enhancement of commercial and manufacturing strategies aimed at optimizing the customer experience by delivering value-added and sustainable solutions. Barto is dedicated to elevating Americhem’s presence and visibility in the European market.

Linda has over 25 years at Americhem and a broad range of experience including strategic planning, talent development, project management, research, technical writing, and teaching. Her unparalleled wealth of experience and expertise in design, technical services, and regulatory matters is demonstrated through her accomplishments. This includes spearheading the management and implementation of technology formulation protocols essential for product designs, ensuring adherence to protocols, and constantly driving a wide range of improvement initiatives.

Rob Gudbranson brings 20+ years of experience in Corporate Finance in the Industrial sector to Americhem. Rob has achieved his Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Mathematics from Yale University and his Master’s Degree in Politics and Economics from the University of Oxford. He has utilized his degrees and experience to successfully analyze Americhem's financial status and propose strategic actions that assist in the overall growth of the business.

Diane Shields brings 30+ years of experience in leading strategic Human Resources for the Industrial sector to Americhem. Diane has achieved her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania and her Master’s Degree from the University of Scranton. She has utilized her education, experience, and collaboration with executive and global management teams to develop organization solutions that enable Americhem to win in the marketplace.

Rod Manfull brings 30+ years of leadership experience in diverse expertise in the Plastics industry to Americhem. Through years of developing and executing successful global strategies for commercial leadership, manufacturing, supply chain, raw material science, and inventory management, Rod has built his expertise around three founding principles: innovation, efficiencies, and results. Successfully leading corporate integrations, implementing continuous improvement processes, and strategizing on executive committees are just some of his career achievements that have led him to be a Supply Chain expert.

Rose Tu joined Americhem in 2009 bringing 18+ years of experience in the thermoplastics industry, specifically in sales and marketing. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Machinery and Electronics from Nanchang University and an MBA from Tongji University, Shanghai. Rose has been an integral part of business growth through project development and account management. Her proven track record in driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and delivering results has been instrumental in shaping the future business in China and advancing Americhem's overall efforts.

S. Mani, a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience, excels in 360-degree manufacturing, operational excellence, and commercial acumen across India, Singapore, and China. His extensive expertise extends to managing full P&L accountability, making him instrumental in addressing any challenges that may arise. Mani holds a B.Tech in Chemical Engineering from NUS, Singapore and his comprehensive technical background in Chemical Engineering and Polymer Technology has led to multiple patented innovations and profitability. As a performance-driven leader, he fosters excellence in his team and efficiently allocates resources to achieve business goals. Mani's deep understanding of polymer technology positions him as a key figure in expanding our presence in India and Southeast Asia.

Nick brings over 20 years of experience in manufacturing and leadership to Americhem. Throughout his career, Nick has held various leadership positions where he has consistently led teams to achieve operational excellence and continuous improvement. Nick holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Health, Safety, and Environmental from The University of Findlay and an Executive MBA in Business Administration and Management from The University of Toledo. He is also a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, showcasing his expertise in process improvement and operational efficiency. Nick leverages his education and vast experience to lead global manufacturing functions, ensuring operational excellence and innovation. As part of the global executive team, he plays a critical role in setting business unit goals and engaging in long-term strategic planning.