The Chemical Business Association (CBA), the voice of the chemical supply chain, is pleased to announce the appointment of Alastair Sanderson as Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Alastair joins the CBA with a wealth of chemical industry experience following a 30+ year career with Unilever, specifically in FMCG, with a focus on Home Care products.

Having initially gained a First-Class Honours degree in Chemistry, Alastair went on to complete a PhD in Physical Chemistry at The University of Salford in 1992. He subsequently undertook a number of senior R&D roles at Unilever, including Senior Development Manager and Global Technology Manager.

During his time with Unilever Alastair also played a leading role in creating the “Carbon Rainbow”, Unilever’s unique approach to managing the provenance of carbon used across the company’s product formulations to help move towards Net Zero, seeking to replace non-renewable carbon sources, with a specific focus on captured CO2 and its utilisation along with exploring biogenic alternatives.

Alastair is also a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC), having been recognised for contributions to science and innovation, while also being a Chartered Chemist (CChem).

Bringing his wide-ranging experience, skillset and strong environmental advocacy to the CBA, Alastair will be focusing on supporting the CBA’s CEO with day-to-day operations, which will include strategic planning and performance management, amongst other key tasks.

Speaking about the appointment, CEO Tim Doggett said, “I would like to welcome Alastair to our CB-A Team on behalf of myself, our staff and members. Alastair will not only be working closely with me to ensure we continue to deliver the highest levels of service and support, giving the best possible membership experience to our current members, but to ensure our membership continues to grow by providing new innovative services, in addition to bolstering our industry knowledge and know-how.”

“I am extremely proud to be joining the CBA, a highly respected and valued trade association, recognised across the chemical supply chain and the wider chemical industry as a leading go-to resource. I am very much looking forward to working with my new colleagues to deliver a growing list of services to our membership, and in representing the interests of the chemical supply chain on a global stage,” said Alastair.