SINGAPORE (Nov. 16, 2009)—Stephen Evans, former Shell and Kraton Polymers L.L.C. executive, will succeed Hidde Smit as secretary-general of the International Rubber Study Group, the organization said.
Evans will take the post of the intergovernmental organization on Jan. 1, when Smit steps down after completing his term of office that started in 2007. Evans has been involved in the rubber industry for the past decade, most recently as business manager for the Europe/Africa/Middle East area for Kraton Polymers.
The IRSG said Evans' qualifications and strength in biology gained from his academic days and work experience at Kew Gardens will enable him to relate to the issues the natural rubber-growing industry faces, plus its environmental challenges and opportunities.
Evans' background in the synthetic elastomer area gives him a strong awareness of the industry and analytical skills including scenario, the IRSG said. He also has been involved with the International Institute of Synthetic Rubber Producers, as a former committee member.