US materials science and technology company Gelest has expanded its executive team and appointed Jim Whitlock to the newly created position of Chief Operations Officer (COO).

“Jim has over 30 years of experience in the silicone business, including roles as senior vice president and corporate vice president with Dow Corning in its Core Products Business and Global Manufacturing & Engineering Operations, and he is joining Gelest at a pivotal time,” said Ken Gayer, CEO of Gelest. “The expansion of our senior leadership team reflects Gelest’s commitment to operational excellence and growth as a globally-recognized leading innovator and manufacturer of highly value-added advanced materials.  With Jim’s appointment, we look forward to improving customer satisfaction and operational performance in every respect and accelerating our growth in advanced technology end markets with the support of our partners at New Mountain Capital.”

Before joining Gelest, Whitlock served as vice president of Integrated Supply Chain for Honeywell’s Performance Materials & Technology business Group. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the Ohio State University.