CPChem names Steve Prusak as new CEO, announces other leadership changes

Chevron Phillips Chemical (CPChem), one of the world’s leading petrochemical companies, announced today that Steve Prusak will become its new president and chief executive officer, effective March 1, 2024. Prusak will replace Bruce Chinn, who will retire after more than 40 years in the energy industry.

Prusak is a 30-plus year veteran of the chemical industry and brings deep knowledge of CPChem’s core business and robust organic growth experience to the role. He currently oversees the company’s strategy function and research and technology department, as well as the projects organization that is constructing two world-scale facilities on the U.S. Gulf Coast and in Qatar.

“I’d like to congratulate Bruce on a tremendous career. Under his leadership, CPChem has delivered on its strategic objectives to grow the business and establish targets to reduce the carbon intensity of its operations,” said Mitra Kashanchi, president of Chevron Chemicals and CPChem board member. “With projects like Ras Laffan Petrochemicals in Qatar and Golden Triangle Polymers in Texas underway, Steve’s extensive background in project execution and his commitment to operational excellence position him well to continue CPChem’s growth and to deliver strategic value.”

The company also announced several other management changes, effective March 1, 2024:

• Mitch Eichelberger, executive vice president of polymers and specialties, will retire from the company after more than 40 years of service.
• Justine Smith, senior vice president of petrochemicals, will become executive vice president of commercial, assuming additional responsibility for the polymers and specialties businesses.
• Bryan Canfield, senior vice president of manufacturing, will take on additional responsibility for the projects organization and will become executive vice president of manufacturing and projects.
• Kevin Ristroph, vice president of specialties, will become senior vice president of corporate planning and technology, overseeing the company’s strategy and research and technology functions.

Tim Roberts, executive vice president of midstream and chemicals at Phillips 66 and a member of the CPChem board of directors, said: “These management changes represent the strong leadership talent at CPChem, and we look forward to seeing the company continue to thrive under their direction.”

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