- Gutacker starts as SVP and GM at Geismar on October 1, 2025.
- Geismar site includes 32 plants and employs over 2,000 people.
- Site is finalizing MDI 3 expansion, a major investment in North America.
- Geismar produces urethanes, chemical intermediates, and surfactants.
Leadership Change
Andy Gutacker has been appointed as Senior Vice President and General Manager of BASF's Geismar, Louisiana site, effective October 1, 2025. He succeeds Jerry Lebold, who is leaving the company after supporting the transition.
Site Overview
The Geismar site is BASF's largest manufacturing facility in North America, comprising 32 plants and employing over 2,000 people, including contractors. The site is a key example of BASF's Verbund approach, focusing on interconnected production and resource optimization.
Expansion and Production
The Geismar facility is in the final stages of its MDI 3 expansion, BASF's largest wholly owned investment in North America. The site produces a variety of products, including urethanes for foam insulation, shoes, and furniture, as well as chemical intermediates and surfactants.
Gutacker's Background
Gutacker joined BASF in 2019 and has held various leadership roles, including Vice President of Operations for Industrial Petrochemicals in North America and Vice President of Investments and Engineering for BASF's Battery Materials business. Before BASF, he held leadership positions at Linde and Air Products.
