Air Products Announces New Leadership
In a significant leadership shift, Air Products, a global leader in industrial gases, has appointed Eduardo F. Menezes as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective February 7, 2025. This decision marks a new chapter for the company as it transitions from the leadership of Seifollah Ghasemi, who has served for over ten impactful years.
The Transition of Leadership
The announcement was made by the Air Products' Board of Directors, with Wayne T. Smith taking over as Chairman, alongside Dennis H. Reilley, who has been appointed as Vice Chairman. Together, they aim to guide the new CEO and the existing leadership team toward advancing company goals and maximizing shareholder value.
Menezes’s selection comes from an extensive pool of candidates evaluated by the board, underscoring his deep expertise in the industrial gases sector, acquired over three and a half decades at Linde plc and Praxair. His extensive operational experience in countries worldwide positions him as a formidable leader to steer Air Products into its next growth phase. Menezes expressed gratitude for the opportunity and optimism about the future of Air Products, which he describes as a company with a fantastic potential.
Background of Eduardo F. Menezes
Menezes holds an MBA from the State University of New York and a degree in chemical engineering from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. His last role as executive vice president at Linde for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, provided him with oversight of operations across 40 countries, emphasizing high-level strategic and operational expertise. His experience also includes senior roles in Praxair, where he navigated various key positions that affirmed his leadership capabilities.
Reflections on Seifi Ghasemi's Tenure
As Ghasemi departs, he leaves behind a legacy characterized by a commitment to safety and ongoing innovation. Smith commended Ghasemi for his dedication and influential role in shaping Air Products over the past decade, which established competencies in profitability and remarkable growth, achieving unprecedented heights. Ghasemi himself reflected on the pride he feels for the accomplishments achieved with his team and the readiness of the company to thrive under new leadership.
Future Outlook for Air Products
With a market capitalization exceeding $65 billion and annual sales surpassing $12.1 billion in fiscal 2024, Air Products is at the forefront of the crucial industrial gases industry, supplying vital products across multiple sectors such as refining, chemicals, and medical applications. Moreover, the company is recognized as the leading global supplier of hydrogen, positioning itself to support the transition to low-carbon energy applications.
As Menezes takes on the CEO role, the collaborative focus among the board and executive team will be essential in continuing to deliver value for stakeholders, customers, and community partners worldwide.
Conclusion
This leadership change symbolizes a moment of reflection, gratitude, and a relentless drive toward the future of industrial gases and sustainability at Air Products. Under the stewardship of Menezes, the company is poised for robust growth and innovation in an evolving energy landscape. For real-time updates about Air Products, their growth, and strategic directions, visit
Air Products’ official website.