Lion Coploymer Leadership stands strong with cross-disciplined, industry-experienced leaders dedicated to quality, environmental sustainability, customer partnership and product development.

GREG NELSON, CEO and President

As a graduate of Cornell University with a BS in Mechanical Engineering, Greg honed his extensive  32+  years of business, manufacturing and supply chain background and leadership experience at key global chemical companies including Nalco, Sun Chemical, Dow Chemical, Union Carbide and Exxon Chemical.    His strength of  leadership stands on a foundation of  his experience and values for safety, quality and customer care.

JESSE ZERINGUE, Executive Vice President

With a B.S. Degree in Chemistry, an M.B.A, and  over 19 years experience in the polymer industry, Jesse is well-equipped to manage the challenges in today’s marketplace.   Prior to the Lion acquisition of the SBR business from DSM, Jesse was the Director of Global Supply Chain Management.   His broad experience in both the manufacturing and business areas have enabled unique insight and leadership abilities to respond to the market trends and maintain strong customer relationships.

DEEPAK PARIKH, Chief Technology Officer and Commercial Vice President Asia/Pacific

Holding a B.S. degree in Chemical Engineering from Bombay University, a Masters in Polymer Science from the University of Tennessee, and a PhD in Polymer Science from the University of Utah, Deepak has an extensive history in the chemical manufacturing industry that includes 21 years global leadership with Dow Chemical and DuPont Dow Elastomers in R&D, business development and sales. At Lion, Deepak is responsible for research and development, developing and commercializing new EPDM products, providing support for customer product trials, and developing new business in emerging markets in Asia and Eastern Europe.  

BOB BAXTER, Vice President of Purchasing

Bob holds a B.S. degree in Mathematics from Arkansas State University and a Master of Science in Operations Research from the University of Arkansas.  He has an extensive history in the manufacturing industry that includes over 20 years senior management experience in MRO, Capital, Transportation, and IT Purchasing.  He is an active member on several Louisiana Chemical Association committees and a U.S. Army Veteran.

BOBBY RIKHOFF, Plant Manager - Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Long time resident of Louisiana, Bobby attended Louisiana State University, receiving a B.S. degree in Chemical Engineering.  Bobby has held a number of technical and production positions throughout his career before his most recent position as Baton Rouge plant manager.  In his current role he is responsible for the safety, quality, cost, and productivity of this facility.

PHILIP SPILLANE, Plant Manager - Geismar, Louisiana

Plant Manager at the Geismar Plant since June 2007,  Philip has over 20 years experience working in manufacturing having held positions with increasing responsibility from his days as a project engineer with Impala Platinum in South Africa and John Brown Engineering in the UK. His previous role was as production manager for over 10 years at an organic peroxide manufacturing plant. Philip has a B Sc in Industrial Chemistry from the University of Limerick in Ireland. 

DANA COODY, Vice President Human Resources

Dana holds a B.S. in Business Administration and has 18 years human resources and labor experience.  As the Member/Chairperson of the Local Industrial Relations Committee and Society of Human Resource Management, Dana stays on top of current human resource trends and opportunities.  She also leads the Lion efforts in community involvement.