Cyclyx International Welcomes Chris Yandell as New CEO to Drive Plastic Recycling Innovation

Cyclyx International's New Era Begins with Chris Yandell as CEO

Cyclyx International, LLC, known for its innovative approach to recycling post-use plastics and converting them into valuable feedstock, announced a pivotal leadership transition with the appointment of Chris Yandell as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2025. This change marks a significant milestone in the company's journey to reshape plastic recycling on a global scale.

Succeeding Joe Vaillancourt, who is retiring but will continue to lend his expertise as a board advisor throughout 2025, Yandell brings over two decades of leadership in the specialty chemicals industry. His background is not only rich in experience but also in transformative accomplishments that align seamlessly with Cyclyx’s mission. Ranjeet Bhatia, Board Chair and CEO of Agilyx—Cyclyx's parent company—expressed gratitude towards Vaillancourt for his vital role in transitioning Cyclyx from a nascent concept to a successful organization. Bhatia welcomed Yandell, highlighting his ability to lead high-performing teams and navigate complex markets, claiming that he is well-equipped for the next phase of Cyclyx's growth.

Chris Yandell’s extensive experience includes significant leadership roles at Albemarle Corporation, where he oversaw a billion-dollar profit and loss operation in refining catalysts and managed lithium operations across multiple countries, including the United States, Chile, Australia, and China. His commitment to operational excellence and strategic growth is evident throughout his career, making him a fitting leader for an organization dedicated to bettering the environment through effective recycling practices.

In his previous position at Compass Minerals International, Yandell was at the helm of developing the company’s lithium business, reinforcing his background in a crucial sector that intersects with Cyclyx’s goals. Additionally, Yandell’s military experience as a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and his academic credentials—a BS in Chemical Engineering and an MBA from Louisiana State University—along with his training from Harvard's Advanced Management Program position him as a well-rounded and capable leader.

Expressing his enthusiasm about leading Cyclyx, Yandell stated, “I am excited to join Cyclyx and look forward to working with the board and this accomplished team.” He emphasized his intentions to focus on enhancing the Cyclyx Circularity Centers, driving the company's vital goal of increasing the recyclability of post-use plastics.

As Cyclyx embarks on this new chapter, the company is also ramping up its operational capabilities with plans to establish a centralized office and advanced laboratory facilities in the Houston area. This expansion strategy is part of a broader vision to enhance its operational footprint, which recently included a notable financial commitment involving Agilyx, ExxonMobil, and LyondellBasell, who are together investing $135 million to develop a second Cyclyx Circularity Center (CCC2) in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. With an expected completion date in the latter half of 2026, this new center will complement the first facility, CCC1, slated to open in 2025 in Houston.

Once both centers are operational, they are poised to process approximately 600 million pounds (270,000 metric tons) of plastic waste annually, converting it into feedstock for customers through state-of-the-art mechanical and advanced recycling technologies. This ambitious initiative highlights Cyclyx's commitment to establishing an effective circular economy for plastics and solidifying its role at the forefront of the recycling industry.

In summary, Chris Yandell’s appointment as CEO heralds a new and exciting phase for Cyclyx International. With his wealth of experience and a robust plan to elevate recycling capabilities, the company is on the precipice of significant advancements in its mission to transform how we perceive and manage plastic waste. The contributions of Yandell, alongside the energy and expertise of the existing team, will surely guide Cyclyx toward achieving its goals in the crucial field of sustainable waste management.