Univar Europe strengthens leadership team in the Middle East and Africa

This exciting step forward for Univar will enable the company to better serve existing and potential customers and suppliers in this dynamic growth region from Dubai, where the Univar Middle East and Africa operations will be established.

Powell joins Univar following a 20-year career of progressive leadership in the chemical industry. The majority of his career was spent with chemical company, BetzDearborn, before it was acquired by GE Water & Process Technologies.

Here he led the successful pan-European operations of Sentinel Chemical Solutions before becoming General Manager of GE Water & Process Technologies in the Middle East and Africa. In this position he was responsible for building local teams, business infrastructure and delivering considerable growth.

Powell joins Univar from Aqualyng where he served as President, Global Water Solutions and Managing Director of Aqualyng Middle East. Prior to this, Powell was General Manager, Gulf States for Fosroc Construction Chemicals.

"We are extremely excited about our expansion into the Middle East and Africa. Although we already have successful business relations in this area, a permanent presence in Dubai, headed by Nick, who has many years of experience working in the region, will further strengthen our capabilities and contribute to the growth of our business,"

said John van Osch, President EMEA, Univar Europe.

"Nick's regional experience and local knowhow, coupled with his in-depth knowledge of the chemical industry will help secure Univar's success in this vital and growing region," he added.

In his new position at Univar, Powell will focus on developing commercial activities with local suppliers and customers for Univar in MEA, Europe and globally, building local teams throughout the region and creating value for both European and global suppliers and partners by offering a true sales channel in this vibrant region.

Powell will continue to be based in Dubai, where he has spent the past five years, and will report to John van Osch, President EMEA, Univar Europe.

Operating from 56 distribution locations in 20 countries across Europe, Univar's 2,400 local employees serve more than 50,000 European customers in a diverse range of industries including coatings, food, personal care, pharma and other major sectors.