Kent Young joins GIT’s board of directors

Mr Young, formerly senior director of technology for global supply chain R&D at coatings specialist Sherwin-Williams, will provide strategic guidance and expertise across a range of areas as GIT looks to scale its business globally.

At Sherwin-Williams, he led multiple cross-functional teams supporting innovation and growth initiatives including internal polymer R&D and supply activities in the architectural business segment.

In addition, Mr Young led the open innovation and external technology teams including university partnerships, government initiatives and start-up ecosystem activities supporting Sherwin-Williams’ innovation and growth strategies. A holder of numerous patents, Mr Young was the winner of the 2020 Maurice Holland Award from the Innovation Research Interchange and led the team that won the 2011 US EPA Green Chemistry Award.

GIT said, “Kent’s extensive background in coatings, along with his experience in supply chain, risk management, raw material selection, R&D processes, and product innovation will accelerate GIT’s growth.” 

GIT chief executive Mo AlGermozi said, “This appointment will see us further expand our intellectual capabilities through Kent’s coatings expertise and leadership. We are excited to welcome Kent to GIT.”

“On behalf of GIT’s board, we are delighted to welcome Kent on board. His experience in coatings, new material development and advanced manufacturing brings tremendous value to GIT, and we look forward to working with Kent to accelerate the decarbonisation of maritime shipping and better protect the world’s fragile marine ecosystems,” said BDC Capital partner Matt Stanley. BDC’s ClimateTech Fund led investment rounds that go towards helping GIT raise funds to improve its biofouling related offerings.

Of his own appointment, Mr Young said, “I am excited to join the GIT board of directors and support GIT’s leadership team to execute their mission to provide innovative, sustainable coating solutions to shipowners and operators around the world – products that have an impact on energy efficiency and global sustainability targets.”