Avient Corporation Welcomes Ashish K. Khandpur as New Chairman of the Board

Avient Corporation, a leading innovator in materials solutions, has made headlines with the appointment of Ashish K. Khandpur as its new Chairman of the Board. Effective May 14, 2025, Dr. Khandpur will expand his current role as President and CEO to include this significant leadership position, succeeding Richard H. Fearon, who will continue to serve on the Board.

Dr. Khandpur’s ascension to this esteemed position showcases not only his remarkable leadership skills but also the Board's confidence in his vision for Avient's future. Richard Fearon remarked on the immediate impact Dr. Khandpur has had since joining the company, particularly through a strategic framework aimed at amplifying innovation and driving organic growth. His efforts have already begun to yield tangible results, underlining the importance of his leadership during this pivotal time for Avient.

The announcement has sparked a positive response among stakeholders, with Dr. Khandpur expressing gratitude for the trust placed in him by the Board and acknowledging the foundation laid by Mr. Fearon's prior leadership. As he steps into the chairmanship, Dr. Khandpur is poised to continue advancing Avient's commitment to a sustainable, innovative future.

Professional Background

Dr. Ashish K. Khandpur’s career trajectory has been characterized by a dedicated pursuit of excellence and innovation. Launching his profession at 3M in 1995, he began as a senior research engineer and impressively climbed the corporate ladder through various research and engineering roles across the U.S. and India. His leadership qualities became evident when he was appointed Chief Technology Officer at 3M in 2014, overseeing a global team of over 8,000 scientists and engineers with significant annual R&D investments reaching approximately $1.9 billion.

By 2019, Dr. Khandpur had risen to lead 3M's $5 billion Electronics and Energy Business Group before assuming the role of Group President for the Transportation and Electronics Business Group. His academic credentials are equally impressive, holding a Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology in Delhi and a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Minnesota.

Apart from his role at Avient, he contributes his expertise to various prestigious boards, including serving on the Board of Directors of Constellation Energy Corporation and the Dean's Advisory Board for the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Minnesota.

A Look Ahead

Under Dr. Khandpur’s leadership, Avient aims to continue building on its reputation as a pioneering force in materials solutions. The company's dedication to sustainability and customer success remains central to its operations. With a robust portfolio that includes colorants, advanced composites, functional additives, engineered materials, and Dyneema®—the strongest fiber in the world—Avient is poised to meet the evolving needs of its clientele and to drive innovation across various sectors.

As Dr. Khandpur embarks on this new chapter as Chairman, stakeholders can anticipate ongoing dedication to not only fulfilling the company's goals but also enhancing shareholder value through strategic collaboration and innovative practices. Avient Corporation, with Dr. Khandpur at the helm, is set to navigate the complexities of the materials solutions industry, ensuring it remains agile and responsive to market demands. For more information about Avient's initiatives and product offerings, visit Avient's official website.