When I began my career in the chemicals industry more than 35 years ago, I could never have imagined the opportunities, challenges and rewards ahead. From technical roles through sales and market development, to leading a national trade association, my journey has been shaped by an industry that continually evolves and never ceases to innovate.
For 25 years, I worked with BASA member companies Synthomer and Eastman Chemical Company, gaining experience across technical, commercial and market development functions. Those roles gave me a deep appreciation of chemistry’s role in everyday life and the importance of strong supply chain relationships.
In 2015, I joined the British Adhesives & Sealants Association (BASA) as Secretary. Eleven years later, having spent the last three years as Chief Executive Officer, I remain passionate about supporting our members and championing the adhesives and sealants sector. It often operates behind the scenes, yet enables modern life, from construction and transportation to packaging, healthcare and renewable energy technologies.
Leading BASA has been one of the greatest privileges of my career. During my time with the Association, we have increased the visibility and influence of our sector, strengthened member engagement, promoted best practice and supported the industry’s response to complex regulatory and sustainability challenges. Collaboration is central to everything we do, because the chemicals industry succeeds when businesses, trade bodies, educators and policymakers work together.
This year brought an unexpected and deeply humbling honour when I was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours List for services to the chemicals industry. I accept this recognition with enormous gratitude, not only on my own behalf, but on behalf of the colleagues, volunteers and industry professionals who have supported me throughout.
As I said when the award was announced, “I feel incredibly humbled and grateful to those who nominated me. It is a real privilege to be recognised in this way, and I share this honour with the inspiring colleagues and community who have supported me throughout.”
While individual recognition is appreciated, the award also shines a spotlight on the wider chemicals sector and the people whose expertise, dedication and innovation contribute so much to the UK economy every day.
As a woman working in chemicals, I have seen encouraging progress in diversity and inclusion, but there is more to do. The industry offers outstanding career opportunities across science, engineering, manufacturing, commercial leadership and sustainability. My advice to women considering a career in chemicals is simple: be curious, embrace opportunities and never underestimate the value of your perspective. Diverse teams make better decisions, solve problems more effectively and drive stronger innovation.
At BASA, we are committed to supporting the next generation of talent and celebrating excellence across our membership. One of the highlights of our calendar is the BASA Showcase, which returns for its third year on Friday 20 November 2026 at the Leeds Met Hotel.
This year’s Showcase will focus on skills development, innovation, sustainability and community engagement with 8 categories for members to enter. By highlighting success stories and sharing best practice, we inspire progress, encourage collaboration and raise standards across the industry.
The Showcase gives organisations of all sizes an opportunity to raise their profile, celebrate achievements and recognise the people who make their success possible. I hope to see many BASA members entering the awards and joining us for what promises to be another inspiring event.
Looking back, I feel fortunate to have built a career in such a dynamic industry. Looking forward, I remain excited about the opportunities ahead and proud to help shape the future of chemicals, adhesives and sealants.
For more information, please visit basa.uk.com.
By Lorna Williams, BEM
