NOVA Chemicals Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

NOVA Chemicals has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, venture management, and corporate governance.

Focused on sustainable plastic resin production, NOVA Chemicals advances circular economy initiatives while maintaining high-performance manufacturing standards across North American markets to ensure long-term industrial growth.

Leadership Roles at NOVA Chemicals

  • Chief Executive Officer - Gord Knott
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Roger Kearns
  • Chief Executive Officer & Founder - Chinedu Akunne
  • Chief of Staff & Director, Joint Venture - Julie Puddell
  • Gord Knott - Chief Executive Officer

    Gord Knott, the Chief Executive Officer at NOVA Chemicals, directs the overarching strategic vision for plastic resin manufacturing. Overseeing the transition toward sustainable chemical production, the Chief Executive Officer aligns internal manufacturing capabilities with global environmental standards. This leadership role involves managing complex supply chains and optimizing production efficiency to meet rising market demand. By fostering innovation in polymer science, Gord Knott drives the development of high-performance materials essential for modern packaging and industrial applications. The Chief Executive Officer maintains rigorous oversight of safety protocols and operational excellence across all facilities. Through consistent focus on market expansion and technological advancement, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the company remains a leader in the chemical sector. Strategic decisions made by the Chief Executive Officer directly influence the long-term viability of the organization, securing a competitive position within the North American manufacturing landscape while prioritizing sustainable growth and operational reliability.

    Roger Kearns - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Roger Kearns, the President & Chief Executive Officer at NOVA Chemicals, manages the comprehensive execution of corporate objectives and manufacturing output. Overseeing the integration of advanced chemical engineering processes, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that production facilities operate at peak capacity to support diverse client needs. This leadership role requires constant collaboration with the board to refine business models and enhance market penetration. By prioritizing the development of circular economy solutions, Roger Kearns drives the company toward a more sustainable future in plastic resin manufacturing. The President & Chief Executive Officer monitors regional performance metrics to maintain high standards of quality and safety. Through strategic resource allocation and operational oversight, the President & Chief Executive Officer strengthens the company's market position. This executive leadership ensures that all manufacturing initiatives align with the broader corporate mission, ultimately delivering value to stakeholders while maintaining a robust presence in the competitive chemical industry.
    Roger Kearns

    Chinedu Akunne - Chief Executive Officer & Founder

    Chinedu Akunne, the Chief Executive Officer & Founder at NOVA Chemicals, architects the foundational principles and long-term growth strategy for the organization. Overseeing the initial development of specialized chemical resins, the Chief Executive Officer & Founder ensures that innovation remains at the core of all manufacturing processes. This leadership role involves identifying emerging market opportunities and steering the company toward high-growth sectors within the chemical industry. By championing research and development initiatives, Chinedu Akunne drives the creation of proprietary technologies that differentiate the company from competitors. The Chief Executive Officer & Founder maintains a focus on scaling operations to meet international demand while upholding strict quality control standards. Through visionary leadership and strategic planning, the Chief Executive Officer & Founder secures the company's reputation as a pioneer in plastic resin production. This executive role involves constant evaluation of market trends to ensure the organization adapts effectively to the evolving needs of the global manufacturing sector.

    Julie Puddell - Chief of Staff & Director, Joint Venture

    Julie Puddell, the Chief of Staff & Director, Joint Venture at NOVA Chemicals, coordinates cross-functional initiatives and manages critical partnership agreements. Overseeing the operational alignment between joint venture entities, the Chief of Staff & Director, Joint Venture ensures that collaborative projects meet established performance benchmarks. This leadership role involves facilitating communication between executive teams and streamlining internal processes to improve organizational efficiency. By managing complex stakeholder relationships, Julie Puddell drives the success of strategic alliances that expand the company's reach in the chemical market. The Chief of Staff & Director, Joint Venture monitors project timelines and resource distribution to ensure that all joint ventures contribute positively to the company's bottom line. Through meticulous planning and execution, the Chief of Staff & Director, Joint Venture supports the broader corporate strategy by fostering synergy across diverse business units. This executive role remains essential for maintaining operational cohesion and achieving long-term growth objectives within the competitive manufacturing landscape.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding NOVA Chemicals Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads NOVA Chemicals?
    NOVA Chemicals is led by Gord Knott (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Roger Kearns (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Chinedu Akunne (Chief Executive Officer & Founder).
    Who is part of NOVA Chemicals’s executive team?
    The executive team of NOVA Chemicals includes leaders such as Gord Knott (Chief Executive Officer), Roger Kearns (President & Chief Executive Officer), Chinedu Akunne (Chief Executive Officer & Founder) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does NOVA Chemicals have?
    NOVA Chemicals has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in NOVA Chemicals’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of NOVA Chemicals includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Chief of Staff & Director, Joint Venture.