#USA #Atlanta #Norfolk Southern #Lori Ryerkerk #Celanese Corp.

Norfolk Southern Corporation Welcomes Lori J. Ryerkerk to Its Board of Directors

On January 27, 2025, Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC), a leading player in the freight rail industry, announced the appointment of Lori J. Ryerkerk to its Board of Directors. Ryerkerk, who previously served as the chairman, chief executive officer, and president of Celanese Corporation, brings over 30 years of global expertise in the energy, manufacturing, and chemical sectors. This addition enhances the board's membership to a total of 14 directors.

Mark George, the current president and CEO of Norfolk Southern, emphasized the value of Ryerkerk's extensive background in navigating complex supply chains and managing global operations. He stated, "Lori's substantial experience and insights as a significant rail customer make her an invaluable asset as we strive to establish a robust and operationally driven network. Her leadership will be crucial for our long-term growth and in providing exceptional service to our clients and the communities we serve."

Claude Mongeau, chair of the board, echoed these sentiments, highlighting Ryerkerk's leadership roles in public companies and her commitment to fostering a culture of high performance. Mongeau mentioned that Ryerkerk's insights will be instrumental in positioning Norfolk Southern as the preferred choice for clients aiming to contribute to the American economy.

Lori J. Ryerkerk expressed her excitement about joining the Norfolk Southern board, stating, "Railroads play an essential role in the global economy. I am inspired by Norfolk Southern's dedication to operational excellence, enhancing safety measures, and driving sustainable growth. I look forward to contributing to the company’s ongoing success and adding value to our stakeholders."

Ryerkerk's appointment followed a thorough national search executed by the Diversified Search Group, with support from Ancora Holdings. This move aligns with an earlier agreement announced in November 2024, between Norfolk Southern and Ancora Holdings, to collaborate in identifying an independent director for the board.

A Brief Overview of Lori J. Ryerkerk

Lori J. Ryerkerk is well-regarded in the chemical industry, having led Celanese Corporation since 2019, culminating in her chairmanship starting in 2020. Under her guidance, the company not only achieved remarkable growth but also completed transformative acquisitions while enhancing its safety performance within the industry.

Ryerkerk’s tenure in the energy sector has been nothing short of impressive. She has held executive leadership positions in global manufacturing at Shell Downstream Inc., where she managed international operations at various refineries and chemical sites. Prior to Shell, Ryerkerk was in key roles at Hess Corp. and ExxonMobil, accumulating vast experience in refining, chemicals, and global operations.

With a degree in chemical engineering from Iowa State University, Ryerkerk also serves on the board of Eaton Corporation, a prominent power management technology firm. Her noteworthy expertise in operations, safety, and sustainability makes her a strategic addition to Norfolk Southern’s board of directors.

About Norfolk Southern Corporation

Founded in 1827, Norfolk Southern Corporation has a rich history of safely transporting goods and materials integral to the U.S. economy. With operations spanning a network across 22 states, Norfolk Southern is committed to sustainable practices that help its clients avoid approximately 15 million tons of carbon emissions annually through rail shipments.

The company facilitates around seven million carloads per year, delivering a variety of products from agriculture to consumer goods. Norfolk Southern boasts the most extensive intermodal network in the eastern United States, serving a significant portion of the nation’s population and manufacturing sectors while providing connections to all major container ports on the Atlantic coast, as well as significant ports in the Gulf of Mexico and Great Lakes. For more information, visit NorfolkSouthern.com.