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Univar Solutions Announces Leadership Changes

On May 8, 2026, Univar Solutions LLC, a leading global provider of solutions for specialty ingredients and chemicals, shared some pivotal changes in its leadership team to enhance strategic direction and support ongoing growth. Effective July 1, 2026, President and CEO David Jukes will step into the role of Executive Chair, signalling a new phase in the company's evolution.

Transitioning Leadership Roles

In his new position, David Jukes will closely collaborate with the executive team and board to ensure continuity and the successful implementation of long-term strategic priorities. This transition reaffirms Univar's confidence in its leadership and their readiness to steer the next phase of value creation within the organization.

As the company zeroes in on delivering value across its business sectors, the restructuring will unify operations into clearly defined customer-focused segments:

Chemical Distribution Division

Led by CEO Robert Craycraft, this division will connect a comprehensive portfolio of chemical products with a robust global logistics network, aiming to provide exemplary local services.

Ingredients and Specialty Chemicals Division

Under Nicholas Powell's leadership, this segment will cater to targeted industries with a premier portfolio of specialty chemicals and additives, supported by a global network of formulation laboratories and testing facilities. This structure is designed to tackle technical challenges more effectively and accelerate the market introduction of enhanced products.

ChemPoint

ChemPoint will continue its role in facilitating growth opportunities for suppliers and customers through on-demand production and multi-channel digital marketing campaigns, covering a wide range of chemicals and ingredients. Each CEO within the divisions will report directly to the board, thereby reinforcing accountability and strategic clarity across the organization.

Significance of the Development

David Jukes remarked that this leadership evolution marks a crucial milestone for Univar Solutions. He emphasized that the next steps stem from a carefully crafted succession plan established in close cooperation with the board of directors. Jukes looks forward to focusing on long-term strategy and external relationships, which will be vital as the company navigates this transformative phase.

By adopting a more focused operational structure, each segment will have increased autonomy, responsibility, and agility. This approach will allow for a more precise alignment with customer needs, market dynamics, and innovation, all while preserving the shared capabilities, culture, and values of the organization.

Additionally, Nicholas Alexos will transition from his position as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer to a member of the board of directors. Jukes expressed deep appreciation for Alexos's contributions, particularly during the company's transition from a public to a private entity, and he looks forward to working with him in this new capacity.

Looking Ahead

As the company makes these significant structural changes, it aims to build upon its strengths, fostering closer collaboration with customers. This strategic reorganization positions Univar Solutions to compete effectively and grow more efficiently across diverse end markets.

Univar Solutions, recognized as a leading global distributor of specialty chemicals and ingredients, represents a premier portfolio from top global manufacturers. With one of the industry's largest private transportation fleets, a knowledgeable technical sales team, and leading digital tools, the company is excellently positioned to deliver tailored solutions and value-added services across a myriad of markets and applications.

In fulfilling its mission of helping to keep communities healthy, nourished, clean, and safe, Univar Solutions remains committed to innovation and shared growth with its customers and suppliers. For more information, please visit univarsolutions.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This announcement contains forward-looking statements in accordance with applicable laws concerning financial and operational items related to the company's business. Forward-looking statements are generally identifiable by words such as “believes,” “expects,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “seeks,” “intends,” “plans,” “estimates,” “forecasts,” or other comparable expressions. All forward-looking statements in this announcement are subject to caution.

These statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which the company may not control, which could lead to actual results differing significantly from those anticipated. Although forward-looking statements are based on reasonable management assumptions, we caution that the expectations expressed in this announcement are not guarantees of future events or outcomes.

For further information regarding factors that could influence the company, please refer to the latest annual report and other financial statements, including information provided under the heading 'Risk Factors'. Any forward-looking statements represent the company's views as of the date of this announcement and should not be considered as expressing the company's views on any subsequent date, as the company has no obligation to update any forward-looking statement beyond legal requirements.