Chemical industry leader to share perspectives on leadership, innovation, and reshaping competitive advantage in a changing global market
Houston, TEXAS, July 14, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Chemical Summit today announced that Michael Lefenfeld, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hexion, will deliver the opening keynote at The Chemical Summit, taking place September 29-30, 2026, in Houston, Texas.
Michael Lefenfeld, President & CEO of Hexion Inc., will be the opening keynote speaker for The Chemical Summit 2026
As chemical companies navigate slower growth, shifting customer expectations, geopolitical uncertainty, and rapid advances in artificial intelligence and digital technologies, leaders are being challenged to rethink how their organizations create and sustain competitive advantage. Lefenfeld's keynote will open two days of executive-level conversations focused on helping chemical leaders respond to these changes with clarity, strategy, and execution.
Lefenfeld has led Hexion through a period of strategic transformation, strengthening the company's specialty materials portfolio while advancing innovation, operational excellence, and long-term growth. He is widely recognized for his leadership within the global chemical industry and his focus on building high-performing organizations.
"Michael has earned tremendous respect across our industry for his thoughtful leadership and his ability to successfully guide organizations through periods of change," said Victoria King Meyer, Founder of The Chemical Summit and host of The Chemical Show podcast. "His experience leading transformation while maintaining a relentless focus on customers, innovation, and people reflects exactly the type of leadership our attendees want to learn from."
The 2026 Chemical Summit is built around the theme Reshaping Advantage, exploring how chemical companies can strengthen their competitive position through four interconnected pillars:
• Advantage in a Fragmented Market
• Advantage Through People
• Advantage Through Execution & Resilience
• Advantage Through Technology
Designed specifically for senior leaders across the chemical value chain, the Summit brings together executives responsible for strategy, commercial growth, operations, innovation, digital transformation, and organizational leadership. Unlike traditional trade shows, The Chemical Summit emphasizes executive dialogue, peer learning, and practical insights that leaders can apply immediately within their organizations.