AKRON, Ohio — Myers Industries has announced that David Knowles, 48, has joined the company as executive vice president and chief operating officer, effective immediately. Knowles will be responsible for all manufacturing and distribution operations, sales, marketing, research and development and supply chain functions.
John Orr, president and chief executive officer, commented, “David brings to Myers Industries an extensive operating background in the plastic materials and specialty products arena. His leadership success in business development, sales and market share growth, lean manufacturing and organizational development will be an asset as we focus on the growth strategy in our businesses. I look forward to his contributions and to the value he will help create for our shareholders, customers and employees.”
Since 2003, Knowles was president and chief executive officer of Aristech Acrylics LLC, a manufacturer of continuously cast acrylic sheet and solid surface products used in diverse applications like bathtubs, hot tubs, signage, countertops and more. Under his leadership, Aristech Acrylics transformed its solid surface product line into a high-growth, branded solid surface business; improved margins and cash flow in a difficult raw material and economic environment; and made its Avonite Surfaces brand the fastest-growing in the North American solid surface market.
Prior to joining Aristech, he was vice president and general manager for Honeywell’s Performance Products business, where he earned his Six Sigma Plus Leadership Black Belt.
From 1991 to 2000, Knowles advanced through various positions with the former M.A. Hanna Co. (now PolyOne Corp.), including director, corporate development; senior director, corporate strategy and development; and finally executive vice president and president of the company’s $500 million resin distribution business.
Knowles is a graduate of Northwestern University’s J.L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management with a master’s degree in management, concentrating in economics, finance and marketing. He received a bachelor of science degree in chemical engineering from The University of Michigan.
