MORRISVILLE, Pa.—The founder of Gelest Inc., a maker of silicones, organosilanes, metal-organics and specialty monomers, has been appointed CEO of the company as it transitions under new ownership.
Effectively immediately, Barry Arkles takes the executive post, after Gelest was acquired by Mitsubishi Chemical America Inc. effective Oct. 1.
"Dr. Arkles' comprehensive knowledge of the business and technology of Gelest provides excellent continuity as members of the talented leadership team join to support the continued growth of the company in the key markets served: medical device, semiconductor, personal care, pharmaceutical and diagnostic science," said Steve Yurich, president of MCA.
Arkles also serves as chairman of the board of Gelest, the company he co-founded in 1991.
"My primary objective will be to deploy the technological strengths of Gelest and its parent Mitsubishi Chemical in service to the customer base that depends on us and the communities that we serve," Arkles said. "With the support of our reliable and talented employees, I anticipate a smooth transition into the Mitsubishi Chemical organization while sustaining the continued growth of Gelest."
Arkles succeeds Ken Gayer as CEO of Gelest.