Transforming Hexion: CEO Michael Lefenfeld on Innovation, AI, and Leading With Customer Focus - Ep. 223

Transforming a 150-year-old chemical business into a technology-driven solutions provider requires both innovative thinking and strategic agility. Michael Lefenfeld, President and CEO of Hexion Incorporated, joins host Victoria Meyer to discuss the company’s evolution from its roots as Borden to leading the engineered wood industry with advanced adhesives, resins, and AI-powered manufacturing systems. Michael shares how Hexion’s focus on customer-centered solutions, digitalization, and strategic partnerships is driving rapid change, while also navigating global market pressures and evolving workforce needs. 

Victoria and Michael explore the role of artificial intelligence in modern manufacturing, from boosting product quality and sustainability to supporting workforce upskilling. The conversation extends to lessons in leadership and innovation, including Michael’s advice for young professionals on staying curious and building diverse teams. This episode offers actionable insights for chemical industry professionals facing transformation and rising expectations in an increasingly complex market. 

Victoria and Michael discuss the following topics: 

• How Hexion evolved from a 150-year-old chemical supplier into a customer-focused, technology-driven solutions company. 
• Running a chemical business with PE speed: fast decisions, strategic pivots, and compressed timelines. 
• Leveraging partnerships and external innovation 
• Deploying AI systems to boost operational efficiency and reshape workforce skills. 
• Building successful chemical careers through curiosity, diverse thinking, and strategic humility. 

Killer Quote: "We believe that there are great innovations everywhere, and we want to be partnered with the best in what they do and provide our capabilities, our strengths to make them get to market faster.” - Michael Lefenfeld 

00:00 Innovative Career in Tech Transformation 

03:18 "Journey into Private Equity" 

07:30 Hexion's Innovation-Driven Transformation 

10:25 Localized Manufacturing Minimizes Tariff Impact 

16:16 Hexion's Innovative AI and Sustainability 

18:46 Introducing SmartPress: AI-Driven System 

21:07 AI-Enhanced Custom Glue Solutions 

24:13 "AI Empowers Uniform Operator Upskilling" 

27:48 Stay Curious, Ask Questions 

30:37 Interdisciplinary Innovation Key 

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