The board of directors of Conshohocken-based Quaker Houghton, an industrial process fluids company, recently elected Mark Douglas to serve as chairman of the board, effective immediately. He is an independent director.
Douglas succeeds Michael Barry who is retiring as chairman and a member of the board.
“It is a great privilege to succeed Mike,” Douglas said. “During his tenure, the Company delivered significant growth, solid shareholder returns, and approximately 30 strategic acquisitions.”
The board also voted to eliminate the role of lead independent director, effective Wednesday. The decision reduces the board’s size from 11 to 10 directors.
“Mike’s legacy at Quaker Houghton is one of achievement, distinguished by thoughtful and caring leadership,” Joseph Berquist, Quaker Houghton CEO and president, said, “In recognition of his innumerable contributions as both CEO and Chairman, I’m pleased to announce that we’ll be naming the Michael F. Barry Employee Learning and Conference Center at our new corporate headquarters, and the company will also sponsor The Michael F. Barry Quaker Houghton Manufacturing Leadership Fellowship at Drexel University, Mike’s alma mater. We wish Mike all the best in his retirement.”
Quaker Houghton employs approximately 4,700 people and operates in more than 25 countries. Its customers include aluminum, automotive, aerospace, container, offshore, mining, metalworking, and specialized steel companies.