Buckman, Memphis, Tenn., USA, this week announced that Steven B. Buckman (photo right), president/CEO, will retire effective April 28, 2017.  Steve has led the company’s nine global operating companies for more than 16 years. Junai Maharaj, currently managing director of Buckman Europe, Middle East, and Africa, will become the CEO of Buckman effective April 28. 2017.

In addition, Kathy Buckman Gibson (photo left), Buckman International’s president and COO, will become chairman of the board of directors beginning April 28, 2017. Otto Heissenberger Jr. will retire as chairman and plans to continue to serve as a board member.

"Steve Buckman has dedicated more than 42 years of his life to this company and I can confidently say that Buckman would not be what it is today without his vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to its high standards and values," said  Heissenberger. "Steve has transformed Buckman into a successful global specialty chemical company that focuses on sustainable success through teamwork and values honest and ethical long-term relationships with its customers. I know I speak for everyone at Buckman when I say that Steve will truly be missed."

Steve began his career with Buckman in 1974 as Export Analyst. In 1987, he became president and COO of Buckman International and in 1996 assumed the role of chairman of the board, CEO, and COO. He has served as president/CEO since 2000. Under Steve’s leadership, Buckman’s global sales doubled and the company received two Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge awards from the EPA.