People
October 9, 2020
Dr. Gupta Passes Away
09. October 2020
We mourn the loss of our founder Dr. Heinz B. P. Gupta
On September 30, 2020, Dr. Heinz Bijoy Prosad Gupta (*1932 in Calcutta, India) passed away in Ratingen, Germany, at the impressive age of 88. He founded this publishing house in 1993. For many years he was editor-in-chief of GAK Gummi Fasern Kunststoffe and until 2019 publisher of various national and international specialist journals for the rubber, polyurethane and TPE industries.
Heinz Gupta studied chemistry at the University of Bonn, Germany, where he also received his doctorate. After graduating, he worked for Kabelwerke Duisburg and Paguag (Pahlsche Gummi- und Asbest-Gesellschaft) in Düsseldorf. From 1970 he was consultant to various manufacturers of tires, molded articles and sponge rubber products. In 1972, he assumed additional responsibilities as editor-in-chief of GAK, which had been published since 1948 by Gentner Verlag, then still under the name of Gummi-Asbest-Kunststoffe. His work in industry and as a consultant provided an excellent basis for this journalistic role and encouraged him to found Dr. Gupta Verlag in 1993 and to continue to run GAK himself.
He remained true to GAK’s declared goal of providing technical information that is both scientifically sound and comprehensible to the practitioner. Raw materials, machines, products, processes and their scientific backgrounds were the focus of this important source of information for technicians, engineers and chemists in the rubber industry. However, relevant economic and legal news were not ignored either. The magazine was given a special note by its unique editorials, in which Heinz Gupta questioned current events, sometimes critically, sometimes benevolently, sometimes argumentatively, but always humorously and thoughtfully. He spoke his mind, and he did not care whether it was appropriate.
Over the years Heinz Gupta broadened the portfolio of his publishing house. At K 2001, he launched PU Magazin, a new trade journal for the polyurethane industry. PU Magazine International followed in 2004 as an English-language edition. In 2006, GAK was expanded to include an English edition, RFP Rubber Fibres Plastics, and in 2009 the English-language TPE Magazine International was launched.
In 2006 his lifetime of service to the field was awarded with the plaque of the German Rubber Society for special achievements in research, technology and business as a mark of gratitude for his great commitment.
Most importantly, Dr. Gupta has worked tirelessly to maintain and improve the image of the industry, whose well-being was so close to his heart. His passion was the rubber industry. For decades, he was regarded as the “Gummi-Mann” who was a sought-after discussion partner at all important trade fairs, conferences and industry meetings. Often it was he who asked the first – usually well-intentioned – question after a lecture, just to break the ice.
Heinz Gupta leaves a big void not only in our publishing house. He will be greatly missed!
October 9, 2020
Dr. Gupta Passes Away
09. October 2020
We mourn the loss of our founder Dr. Heinz B. P. Gupta
On September 30, 2020, Dr. Heinz Bijoy Prosad Gupta (*1932 in Calcutta, India) passed away in Ratingen, Germany, at the impressive age of 88. He founded this publishing house in 1993. For many years he was editor-in-chief of GAK Gummi Fasern Kunststoffe and until 2019 publisher of various national and international specialist journals for the rubber, polyurethane and TPE industries.
Heinz Gupta studied chemistry at the University of Bonn, Germany, where he also received his doctorate. After graduating, he worked for Kabelwerke Duisburg and Paguag (Pahlsche Gummi- und Asbest-Gesellschaft) in Düsseldorf. From 1970 he was consultant to various manufacturers of tires, molded articles and sponge rubber products. In 1972, he assumed additional responsibilities as editor-in-chief of GAK, which had been published since 1948 by Gentner Verlag, then still under the name of Gummi-Asbest-Kunststoffe. His work in industry and as a consultant provided an excellent basis for this journalistic role and encouraged him to found Dr. Gupta Verlag in 1993 and to continue to run GAK himself.
He remained true to GAK’s declared goal of providing technical information that is both scientifically sound and comprehensible to the practitioner. Raw materials, machines, products, processes and their scientific backgrounds were the focus of this important source of information for technicians, engineers and chemists in the rubber industry. However, relevant economic and legal news were not ignored either. The magazine was given a special note by its unique editorials, in which Heinz Gupta questioned current events, sometimes critically, sometimes benevolently, sometimes argumentatively, but always humorously and thoughtfully. He spoke his mind, and he did not care whether it was appropriate.
Over the years Heinz Gupta broadened the portfolio of his publishing house. At K 2001, he launched PU Magazin, a new trade journal for the polyurethane industry. PU Magazine International followed in 2004 as an English-language edition. In 2006, GAK was expanded to include an English edition, RFP Rubber Fibres Plastics, and in 2009 the English-language TPE Magazine International was launched.
In 2006 his lifetime of service to the field was awarded with the plaque of the German Rubber Society for special achievements in research, technology and business as a mark of gratitude for his great commitment.
Most importantly, Dr. Gupta has worked tirelessly to maintain and improve the image of the industry, whose well-being was so close to his heart. His passion was the rubber industry. For decades, he was regarded as the “Gummi-Mann” who was a sought-after discussion partner at all important trade fairs, conferences and industry meetings. Often it was he who asked the first – usually well-intentioned – question after a lecture, just to break the ice.
Heinz Gupta leaves a big void not only in our publishing house. He will be greatly missed!
October 1, 2020
BASF’s Geismar GM Profile
BASF’s Lebold leading Geismar site through expansion, pandemic
by Andrew White
October 1, 2020
BASF’s Jerry Lebold loves to restore old cars and motorcycles, and he attributes this passion to his father.
Jerry Lebold, Senior Vice President and General Manager, BASF Corp. — Geismar, Louisiana
At an early age, Lebold searched flea markets and junkyards with his father to find parts for classic cars such as a 1940 Hudson. Today, Lebold serves as senior vice president and general manager of BASF’s Geismar, Louisiana, site, a position he’s held since May 2019. According to Lebold, there are some similarities between rebuilding an antique car and managing the overall operations for one of BASF’s largest manufacturing complexes.
“Whether it’s restoring a Hudson or overseeing 32 production units on-site, you have to be able to solve complex problems and remove any barriers,” Lebold said. “As a general manager, I have to help remove these barriers that are keeping BASF team members from bringing their best to work each day.”
Lebold received a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering and a Master of Science in mathematics from Ohio University. For his first job after college, he worked as a field service technician with Diamond Power, a division of McDermott. After Diamond Power, Lebold worked for companies such as Ford Motor Co., Monsanto and ICL, before joining BASF in 2012. Most recently, before coming to Geismar, Lebold worked in BASF’s global headquarters in Ludwigshafen, Germany.
“Throughout my career, I’ve found that most people will do their best each day to help the team be successful, if they’re provided the right opportunities,” Lebold said. “The most important skills for my current position include being a good, active listener and having the trust and confidence in people to empower them in their roles.”
With 32 production units and approximately 2,000 employees who help create chemistry every day, BASF’s Geismar, Louisiana, site is one of only six Verbund sites in the company’s global portfolio.
‘We create chemistry’
Founded in Germany in 1865, BASF is the largest chemical company in the world, with more than 122,000 employees working at its facilities across the globe. BASF’s Geismar site started production in 1958 and is one of only six Verbund sites in BASF’s global portfolio.
“Our site has 32 production units and manufactures more than 50 products for customers around the world,” Lebold said. “The chemistry created at our Geismar site can be found in products people use every day such as cosmetics, medicines, clothing, electronics, cleaning supplies and many others.”
Most recently, the biggest challenges facing the Geismar site are those created by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Lebold, the chemical industry has had to adapt quickly and develop new, enhanced safety protocols to ensure the health and safety of its workforce.
“We developed these protocols while ensuring the continuation of safe and reliable operations at our facilities,” Lebold said. “To overcome the challenges we faced because of COVID-19, we had to work as a team throughout our own organization and with other companies and industries. We collectively shared best practices that allowed us all to quickly adapt to these new norms.”
According to Lebold, BASF is committed to protecting its employees, communities and the environment, striving to be best-in-class and place safety above all else. BASF’s sites have improved in environmental, health and safety performance over the past 10 years:
- 70-percent reduction in employee injuries.
- 75-percent reduction in spills.
- 60-percent reduction in emissions to air and water.
“We are continuously looking for opportunities to improve safety across our sites,” Lebold stated. “Safety is a core value and responsibility. We value people above all else and understand that we are responsible for the safety and welfare of our team members and community. Throughout the years, we have implemented safety programs that are always challenging us to improve.
“With that said, I believe the Geismar site has the best team, and we are well positioned for future success. I see many great possibilities, including the expansion of manufacturing facilities, research and development, third-party partnerships and sustainable projects. With the level of innovation and creativity at BASF, I think the Geismar site is at the forefront of bringing these innovations and creations to life. We have the people, resources and talent to make it happen.”
In order for the Geismar site to continue its manufacturing excellence, incentive programs like Louisiana’s Industrial Tax Exemption Program (ITEP) are crucial. According to Lebold, BASF’s Geismar site not only competes for business with other companies, but it also competes with other sites within BASF.
“ITEP is crucial to keep the Geismar site front-and-center with the BASF board of directors for future projects,” Lebold explained. “Being able to show that Louisiana has a stable, predictable pro-business environment is essential to the growth of BASF and the chemical industry. I will support efforts that improve the program and work to defeat measures that try to eliminate or reduce the benefits of it.”
Since 2018, BASF’s Geismar site has been constructing a new methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) synthesis unit. The new plant is an important step to double BASF’s annual MDI capacity in Geismar from 300,000 metric tons to close to 600,000 metric tons.
“MDI is an important component for polyurethanes, an extremely versatile plastics material that contributes to improved insulation for appliances, provides lighter materials for cars and helps save energy in buildings,” Lebold said. “Last year, we proceeded with the second phase of production expansion for MDI. This is a three-phase expansion, and we’ve received approvals on our ITEP applications for all three phases. We’re awaiting final approval of phase three by the BASF board of directors, which should come in the first quarter of 2021. The goal is for the Geismar site to have a world-class MDI facility to better serve the needs of our customers in the region.”
A community partner
As one of the largest employers in Louisiana, BASF’s Geismar site understands the important role it serves as both a business and community partner. The site works with more than 50 schools, universities, community and technical colleges, organizations and nonprofits in the area, donating $1 million annually to these organizations through financial and human resources. BASF’s community outreach focuses on workforce development, STEM education, health and wellness, economic development, sustainability and environmental improvements.
BASF Senior Vice President and Geismar site General Manager Jerry Lebold enjoys restoring antique and classic cars and motorcycles in his free time. Lebold’s favorite type of antique car is a Hudson.
“I’m also involved in a number of organizations including LCA, the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry, the Greater Baton Rouge Industry Alliance and the Committee of 100,” Lebold said. “I believe it’s important to represent BASF in these organizations and bring the unique perspective the company has on issues such as sustainability, safety, workforce development, innovation and technology. These organizations are instrumental in shaping the industry in Louisiana, and it’s important the best practices BASF is known for are included in shaping the approach of these organizations.”
Lebold emphasized that the chemical industry is vital to the well-being of everyone around the world, whether it’s producing key ingredients and products that help fight against COVID-19 and other infectious diseases or manufacturing products that improve people’s everyday lives.
“At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future,” Lebold said. “We want to ensure the products we make will enhance lives well into the future. We innovate to improve not only the products, but the processes by which they are created. Along the whole value chain, we are constantly looking and challenging ourselves to be more sustainable. When you buy soaps, detergents, clothes, mattresses, batteries or medicines that BASF created, we hope you buy with confidence knowing we used the best and most sustainable technology available.”
October 1, 2020
BASF’s Geismar GM Profile
BASF’s Lebold leading Geismar site through expansion, pandemic
by Andrew White
October 1, 2020
BASF’s Jerry Lebold loves to restore old cars and motorcycles, and he attributes this passion to his father.
Jerry Lebold, Senior Vice President and General Manager, BASF Corp. — Geismar, Louisiana
At an early age, Lebold searched flea markets and junkyards with his father to find parts for classic cars such as a 1940 Hudson. Today, Lebold serves as senior vice president and general manager of BASF’s Geismar, Louisiana, site, a position he’s held since May 2019. According to Lebold, there are some similarities between rebuilding an antique car and managing the overall operations for one of BASF’s largest manufacturing complexes.
“Whether it’s restoring a Hudson or overseeing 32 production units on-site, you have to be able to solve complex problems and remove any barriers,” Lebold said. “As a general manager, I have to help remove these barriers that are keeping BASF team members from bringing their best to work each day.”
Lebold received a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering and a Master of Science in mathematics from Ohio University. For his first job after college, he worked as a field service technician with Diamond Power, a division of McDermott. After Diamond Power, Lebold worked for companies such as Ford Motor Co., Monsanto and ICL, before joining BASF in 2012. Most recently, before coming to Geismar, Lebold worked in BASF’s global headquarters in Ludwigshafen, Germany.
“Throughout my career, I’ve found that most people will do their best each day to help the team be successful, if they’re provided the right opportunities,” Lebold said. “The most important skills for my current position include being a good, active listener and having the trust and confidence in people to empower them in their roles.”
With 32 production units and approximately 2,000 employees who help create chemistry every day, BASF’s Geismar, Louisiana, site is one of only six Verbund sites in the company’s global portfolio.
‘We create chemistry’
Founded in Germany in 1865, BASF is the largest chemical company in the world, with more than 122,000 employees working at its facilities across the globe. BASF’s Geismar site started production in 1958 and is one of only six Verbund sites in BASF’s global portfolio.
“Our site has 32 production units and manufactures more than 50 products for customers around the world,” Lebold said. “The chemistry created at our Geismar site can be found in products people use every day such as cosmetics, medicines, clothing, electronics, cleaning supplies and many others.”
Most recently, the biggest challenges facing the Geismar site are those created by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Lebold, the chemical industry has had to adapt quickly and develop new, enhanced safety protocols to ensure the health and safety of its workforce.
“We developed these protocols while ensuring the continuation of safe and reliable operations at our facilities,” Lebold said. “To overcome the challenges we faced because of COVID-19, we had to work as a team throughout our own organization and with other companies and industries. We collectively shared best practices that allowed us all to quickly adapt to these new norms.”
According to Lebold, BASF is committed to protecting its employees, communities and the environment, striving to be best-in-class and place safety above all else. BASF’s sites have improved in environmental, health and safety performance over the past 10 years:
- 70-percent reduction in employee injuries.
- 75-percent reduction in spills.
- 60-percent reduction in emissions to air and water.
“We are continuously looking for opportunities to improve safety across our sites,” Lebold stated. “Safety is a core value and responsibility. We value people above all else and understand that we are responsible for the safety and welfare of our team members and community. Throughout the years, we have implemented safety programs that are always challenging us to improve.
“With that said, I believe the Geismar site has the best team, and we are well positioned for future success. I see many great possibilities, including the expansion of manufacturing facilities, research and development, third-party partnerships and sustainable projects. With the level of innovation and creativity at BASF, I think the Geismar site is at the forefront of bringing these innovations and creations to life. We have the people, resources and talent to make it happen.”
In order for the Geismar site to continue its manufacturing excellence, incentive programs like Louisiana’s Industrial Tax Exemption Program (ITEP) are crucial. According to Lebold, BASF’s Geismar site not only competes for business with other companies, but it also competes with other sites within BASF.
“ITEP is crucial to keep the Geismar site front-and-center with the BASF board of directors for future projects,” Lebold explained. “Being able to show that Louisiana has a stable, predictable pro-business environment is essential to the growth of BASF and the chemical industry. I will support efforts that improve the program and work to defeat measures that try to eliminate or reduce the benefits of it.”
Since 2018, BASF’s Geismar site has been constructing a new methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) synthesis unit. The new plant is an important step to double BASF’s annual MDI capacity in Geismar from 300,000 metric tons to close to 600,000 metric tons.
“MDI is an important component for polyurethanes, an extremely versatile plastics material that contributes to improved insulation for appliances, provides lighter materials for cars and helps save energy in buildings,” Lebold said. “Last year, we proceeded with the second phase of production expansion for MDI. This is a three-phase expansion, and we’ve received approvals on our ITEP applications for all three phases. We’re awaiting final approval of phase three by the BASF board of directors, which should come in the first quarter of 2021. The goal is for the Geismar site to have a world-class MDI facility to better serve the needs of our customers in the region.”
A community partner
As one of the largest employers in Louisiana, BASF’s Geismar site understands the important role it serves as both a business and community partner. The site works with more than 50 schools, universities, community and technical colleges, organizations and nonprofits in the area, donating $1 million annually to these organizations through financial and human resources. BASF’s community outreach focuses on workforce development, STEM education, health and wellness, economic development, sustainability and environmental improvements.
BASF Senior Vice President and Geismar site General Manager Jerry Lebold enjoys restoring antique and classic cars and motorcycles in his free time. Lebold’s favorite type of antique car is a Hudson.
“I’m also involved in a number of organizations including LCA, the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry, the Greater Baton Rouge Industry Alliance and the Committee of 100,” Lebold said. “I believe it’s important to represent BASF in these organizations and bring the unique perspective the company has on issues such as sustainability, safety, workforce development, innovation and technology. These organizations are instrumental in shaping the industry in Louisiana, and it’s important the best practices BASF is known for are included in shaping the approach of these organizations.”
Lebold emphasized that the chemical industry is vital to the well-being of everyone around the world, whether it’s producing key ingredients and products that help fight against COVID-19 and other infectious diseases or manufacturing products that improve people’s everyday lives.
“At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future,” Lebold said. “We want to ensure the products we make will enhance lives well into the future. We innovate to improve not only the products, but the processes by which they are created. Along the whole value chain, we are constantly looking and challenging ourselves to be more sustainable. When you buy soaps, detergents, clothes, mattresses, batteries or medicines that BASF created, we hope you buy with confidence knowing we used the best and most sustainable technology available.”
September 28, 2020
Sampson Rejoins Dow
DOW
John Sampson to rejoin US group as successor to head of engineering Peter Holicki
 Holicki started with Dow in Germany in 1987 (Photo: Dow) |
US materials supplier Dow (Midland, Michigan; www.dow.com) has named John Sampson senior vice-president for operations, manufacturing and engineering. He is to succeed Peter Holicki, who is set to retire in 2021 after over 34 years with the company.
Dow said Sampson was previously executive vice-president for business operations at US epoxy resins specialist Olin (Clayton, Missouri; www.olin.com). Before joining Olin in 2015, Sampson had a long career with Dow, beginning in 1983 in Louisiana in polymers R&D. He will assume his new responsibilities on 1 October 2020 as part of Dow’s leadership team, and will be based in Midland, the company said.
Holicki joined Dow in 1987 in Stade / Germany. Over more than three decades, he held numerous leadership positions in sites across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, including serving as global manufacturing vice president of Dow’s hydrocarbons business, the company said.
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