With more than two decades of experience in footwear and manufacturing, Santhana most recently worked at Bata as the Global Head of Quality in Singapore. Prior to that, Santhana spent seven years at Adidas where he served in director roles overseeing quality footwear and manufacturing excellence in footwear.

“In addition to his vast expertise in the footwear industry, Raj holds two engineering degrees and he will be critical to driving operational excellence programs for our global team of 3,200 people at OrthoLite’s owned manufacturing facilities around the world,” said Richard Bevan, COO of OrthoLite.

Additional personnel moves include the promotion of Shaw Kiat Phua to Vice President of Global Foaming, leading OrthoLite’s Global Foam Innovation Team. SK’s team is committed to advancing OrthoLite’s market leadership as the first and most trusted name in comfort, performance and less impactful footwear foams. In his new role, SK leads the strategic direction for OrthoLite PU material development with a focus on sustainable innovations in footwear and will continue to report to Bevan, COO at OrthoLite. SK is also based in Singapore and regularly travels to OrthoLite’s manufacturing facilities in China, Vietnam, Indonesia, Europe, India, and Brazil

Since 1997, OrthoLite continues to drive innovation and continual improvement to build excellence in foam footwear products and materials consistently, at scale and with on-time delivery to more than 550 footwear brand partners.

OrthoLite has built a rock-solid reputation for innovation, reliability, capacity and is known for its collaborative approach in development with the world’s best footwear brands to create custom insole formulations that deliver unrivaled comfort and performance. OrthoLite insoles are the key interface between how a shoe is designed to perform and the discerning consumer, and its products can be found in more than 600 million pairs of footwear a year.

Posted: October 23, 2024

Source: OrthoLite

Gianluca Tanzi commented: “Me and Giorgio Marcarino are thrilled to have the opportunity to revitalize the brands acquired. Our extensive experience and deep knowledge of the product and textile world will be crucial for advancing Chargeurs PCC’s development strategy, which includes the expansion of our portfolio, historically dedicated to inner components and interlinings, with the offering of the best fabrics aimed at the shirting sector. The combination of Swiss and French know-how will allow us to further expand our expertise and implement increasingly innovative solutions. ”

Giorgio Marcarino added: “The new shirting division fits perfectly into the business and growth strategy of Chargeurs PCC, which has always distinguished itself in the textile-clothing industry by offering cutting-edge products of the highest quality. Today we have a unique opportunity to engage in cross-selling with our interlinings, offering the company an additional incentive to boost performance while offering our customers an even more comprehensive and customised service.”

The fabrics produced by the Swiss heritage brands Alumo and Eugster & Huber represent the cream of the high-end shirting industry. Chargeurs PCC aims to maximise the potential of these brands, restoring their deserved leadership in luxury shirting. As for Brennet, the company has initiated a major repositioning plan focused on enhancing performance and innovation. The approach aims to meet the rising demand of contemporary consumers for high quality shirting fabrics.

Gianluca Tanzi is a highly experienced global executive who has designed and executed successful retail, wholesale and e-commerce strategies for textile, fashion and accessories companies in Europe and the US. He has held various executive positions within prestigious fashion groups. Since 2021 he has been Chairman and CEO of Chargeurs PCC Fashion Technologies and Chairman of Chargeurs Luxury Fibers.

Giorgio Marcarino boasts decades of expertise in the high-end textile sector, where he held responsible positions in the sales, operations and marketing areas of the most important Italian textile groups. He joined Chargeurs PCC Fashion Technologies in 2022 as General Manager EMEA, and since 2023 he has held the position of Chief Commercial Officer.

Posted: October 23, 2024

Source: Chargeurs PCC

Rouru joins Suominen from KONE Corp., where she has worked as vice president, People & Communications, Global Functions. She has extensive experience in human resources management and change leadership in Asia, America, and Europe.

“I am delighted to have Minna Rouru joining Suominen. Minna combines strong international HR experience with business and communications acumen. I trust in her ability to continue building the Suominen culture, as well as promoting the competence of our work community. She will also be a valuable addition to our Executive Management Team,” said Tommi Björnman, president and CEO of Suominen.

Posted: October 21, 2024

Source: Suominen Corporation

Sedlbauer joins Baffin after a successful tenure as lead designer at Cougar Shoes. With extensive experience in footwear design and a strong understanding of materials and consumer preferences, Sedlbauer is set to elevate Baffin’s already robust product line. His role will be pivotal in refining the brand’s design philosophy and ensuring that Baffin remains at the forefront of technical advancements and market trends.

Sedlbauer’s appointment is especially significant, as it marks a continuation of a legacy deeply rooted in the history of Baffin. In 1959, the founder of Baffin’s first manufacturing operation, Peter Hubner, honed his experience in shoemaking working with Sedlbauer’s grandfather, Walter Sedlbauer, at Susan Shoes, the company that would later introduce the Cougar brand. This collaboration established a tradition of craftsmanship and innovation that continues to shape the industry today. Sedlbauer’s connection to this heritage underscores Baffin’s ongoing commitment to quality and tradition.

“Welcoming Austin to our team is not just a strategic move; his historical ties reinforce our legacy,” said Mark Hubner, senior vice president at Baffin. “The experience and innovative vision he brings will lend a fresh perspective to our product offerings, strengthening our market position. We are excited to see how his leadership will drive technical advancements and elevate our design aesthetics as we look to the future.”

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to join Baffin, a true leader in the cold climate footwear industry,” Sedlbauer said. “It’s an honor to be part of a team that is deeply committed to innovation and quality. I look forward to collaborating with such talented individuals to create exceptional products that not only meet but exceed our customers’ expectations. Together, I believe we can take Baffin’s legacy to new heights.”

Sedlbauer will join the Baffin team immediately and will report out of the Stoney Creek headquarters.

Posted: October 18, 2024

Source: Baffin Ltd.

“All of us at Modern Meadow have a passion for technology and innovation, and I am proud to lead us into our next chapter as we continue to advance our mission of commercializing transformative sustainable alternative materials, such as BIO-VERA,” Dr. Williamson said. “Modern Meadow is at a pivotal stage — one in which we are building on our major production milestone to produce 500,000 square meters per year of our BIO-VERA. This milestone highlights the market readiness and cost-efficiency of BIO-VERA, positioning Modern Meadow to meet increasing demand from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), brands and premium tanneries that are actively adopting the material.”

Modern Meadow’s strategy includes:

• Streamlining operations for increased efficiency
• Expanding its European market presence
• Supporting commercialization and brand adoption efforts by extending its operational runway.

The company will also continue to strengthen and expand the BIO-VERA brand by developing refreshed brand messaging, in close collaboration with its commercial partners, to bring the brand to life for consumers and industry alike.

Posted: October 18, 2024

Source: Modern Meadow

She will succeed David Deters, who for nearly a decade led a global innovation program that made Orion a leader in developing sustainable materials, battery additives and other technology in the carbon black industry. Deters announced his retirement earlier this year and will remain with Orion through the end of 2024 to ensure a seamless transition.

Scherbakoff joins Orion from Trinseo, a specialty materials company, where she served as the vice president of Technology & Innovation, overseeing global research, development and technology innovation with sustainability and circular solutions being a key underlying focus. She also supported key growth initiatives as well as mergers and acquisitions. Scherbakoff was a member of Trinseo’s Corporate Environmental, Social and Governance Council.

“Natalia has broad global experience, a track record of moving ideas through the development process to successful product launches and commercial savvy. She combines strong people skills with a passion for driving innovation and achieving tangible outcomes,” Orion CEO Corning Painter said.  “She is arriving at an exciting time here at Orion, and I am looking forward to her building on the success we have had under David’s leadership in batteries, circular products, coatings and other customer applications.”

Before Trinseo, Scherbakoff was the vice president of Research Innovation & Product Lines at Plastic Omnium, a French automotive supplier now known as OPmobility. She also served as the general manager of Specialty Composites and the director of Global Innovation at Owens Corning, a building materials maker.

Scherbakoff is a non-executive board member at specialty materials producer Clayens NP and  is also a member of the Forbes Technology Council.

She holds a Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Macromolecular Science from Case Western Reserve University (U.S.), a Chemical Engineering degree from Mauá Engineering University (Brazil) and an MBA from Getulio Vargas Foundation (Brazil). She is fluent in English, French, Portuguese, Italian and Russian.

Posted: October 17, 2024

Source: Orion S.A.

After successful technology training at PLEVA headquarters Empfingen in Germany, McGee and Service Technician Daniel Forbes are ready to support and advise the customers in the U.S. and Canada.

WEKO is worldwide known for high quality minimal spray dyeing and finishing technology. This in combination with PLEVA high precision sensors and controls will give many advantages in terms of improving efficiency and sustainability in industrial production. Significant reduction in water, energy and chemical consumption can be achieved. In addition, new functional effects can be created for technical textiles, paper, nonwovens and more.

“WEKO is a great partner for us. We are looking forward to the co-operation in North America and are ready to start new, exciting projects. Together we make the industry more sustainable,” states Kathrin Pleva, member of Management.

As a starting point, PLEVA and WEKO presented themselves together on a common exhibition booth at Techtextil North America, which took place August 20-22 in Raleigh, N.C.

Learn more about sustainability with PLEVA Sensors and Controls on www.pleva.org or on LinkedIn.

Posted: October 17, 2024

Source: PLEVA GmbH

SPARTANBURG, S.C. — October 15, 2024 — Diversified global manufacturer Milliken & Company is pleased to announce the appointment of Marcio Manique as senior vice president of protective fabrics for its textile business. In this critical role, Manique will oversee the fire service, workwear, and napery businesses, in addition to managing Westex: A Milliken Brand.

“Marcio has an impressive background and proven track record of driving growth and innovation across various industries,” said Allen Jacoby, executive vice president and president of Milliken’s textile business. “His expertise brings a level of excellence to the protective fabrics space that will be reflected in every corner of our business.”

Manique has previously held leadership roles at E.I. DuPont de Nemours and DSM. Most recently, he served as a Global Business Director at Avient Protective Materials. He holds a bachelor’s degree in metallurgical engineering from FEI-Brazil, an MBA from São Paulo University, and a postgraduate degree in materials science from the University of São Paulo-Brazil. Additionally, Manique is a certified Six Sigma Master and Black Belt and has completed the Authentic Leader Development program at Harvard Business School.

“I am honored to join Milliken’s longstanding legacy of innovation and especially look forward to collaborating with our talented and passionate team of experts,” Manique said. “Together, we will continue Milliken’s tradition of protecting workers and those who protect us, advancing innovation, performance, and sustainability in the markets we serve.”

October 15, 2024

Source:Milliken & Company

“As we continue to pursue excellence in manufacturing, it’s important to recognize the people who make it all happen,” said Michael Brown, executive vice president of operations at Milliken & Company. “Our manufacturing associates are among the true heroes behind our operational success. Their efforts allow us to safely, efficiently, and reliably deliver high-quality products that meet the changing needs of our customers around the world.”

The series profiles Milliken’s manufacturing associates, showcasing their personal journeys, professional achievements, and the vital roles they play within the company. Highlights include:

Brad Keller, a plant supply chain manager, who reflects on his professional development journey with Milliken and the personal connection that fuels his dedication to ensuring the quality and safety of the products he manufactures. “I’ve got a lot of friends that are firemen, and those guys are coming to help us,” Keller says. “If we can do stuff to keep them safe, that just helps the whole community and the whole country.”

Kayce Parker, a human resource specialist, who embraces her multi-faceted role while also organizing events that foster a sense of community and appreciation among associates. “My favorite part of the job is helping the associates and being the forefront for them,” Parker says. “It’s satisfying to know I can help an associate in whatever they need.”

Rodney Fannin, an engineering services team member celebrating 50 years of service with Milliken this year, who emphasizes the importance of safety, and shares how personally meaningful it is to mentor and train new associates. “It’s special to see someone take to what you’re instructing them in and excel,” Fannin says. “Seeing them go on to higher positions makes me proud.”

Posted: October 14, 2024

Source: Milliken & Company

Thomas, who joined Uster Technologies in 1987, has led an impressive career that is rich with the numerous contributions he has made in the textiles field. Over his 37 years with Uster, Thomas has taught many of our market’s top minds about what it takes to make the best quality yarn in the world. His extensive product knowledge coupled with his warm and engaging demeanor were the perfect combination for his work as a trainer, mentor, coach, and friend to many in the industry. Using his Bachelor of Science in Textile Technology degree, which he earned from the outstanding program at North Carolina State University, Thomas has taught classes all over the globe, explaining our latest technological releases to lab managers, manufacturing leaders, engineers, and anyone else who wanted to know why yarn evenness is critical to making quality yarns. While he maintains his love for his alma mater, one of Thomas’ favorite ways to spend his time was teaching classes at Gaston College, where he could educate and guide their amazing students, who represent the future of the textiles industry.

For all his passion and dedication, Uster Technologies is proud to honor Thomas’s legacy by awarding a transfer scholarship at the Gaston College Textile Technology Center and N.C. State University Wilson College of Textiles. This scholarship marries his love for our industry, his alma mater, and his favorite place to teach.  We are proud to honor his spirit by ensuring our next generation shares his passion for an industry that touches every person on this vast planet.

Posted: October 14, 2024

Source:  Gaston College