NOVA Chemicals Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

NOVA Chemicals has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, and operations.

Driven by innovation, NOVA Chemicals develops and manufactures plastic resins and other chemicals, impacting global markets through its commitment to sustainable solutions and advanced material science.

Leadership Roles at NOVA Chemicals

  • Chief Executive Officer - Gord Knott
  • Chief Executive Officer & Founder - Chinedu Akunne
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Roger Kearns
  • Chief Information Officer - Yemi Okubanjo
  • Chief of Staff & Director, Joint Venture - Julie Puddell
  • Director, Corporate Strategy & Chief of Staff - Andrea Tracey
  • Gord Knott - Chief Executive Officer

    Gord Knott, the Chief Executive Officer at NOVA Chemicals, directs the company's overarching strategy and operational execution. Knott's leadership focuses on driving growth and innovation within the plastic resins and chemicals manufacturing sector. This executive guides the organization's commitment to developing advanced materials and sustainable solutions, aligning all departments with corporate objectives. Gord Knott ensures the company maintains its competitive edge in the global chemical industry by fostering a culture of operational excellence and strategic foresight. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include overseeing all business units and ensuring robust financial performance and market expansion. Knott's vision propels NOVA Chemicals forward, emphasizing responsible manufacturing and product development to meet evolving customer needs and environmental standards.

    Chinedu Akunne - Chief Executive Officer & Founder

    Chinedu Akunne, the Chief Executive Officer & Founder at NOVA Chemicals, establishes the foundational vision and strategic direction for the company. Akunne's role encompasses guiding the development and manufacturing of plastic resins and chemicals, ensuring alignment with the company's founding principles and innovative spirit. This leadership position involves overseeing all aspects of the business, from product innovation to market penetration, with a focus on long-term sustainability and growth. Chinedu Akunne drives the company's mission to deliver high-quality chemical solutions while fostering a culture of pioneering research and development. The Chief Executive Officer & Founder's influence extends across all operational facets, ensuring that NOVA Chemicals remains at the forefront of the chemical manufacturing industry. Akunne's strategic insights are critical for navigating market dynamics and expanding the company's global footprint.

    Roger Kearns - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Roger Kearns, the President & Chief Executive Officer at NOVA Chemicals, commands the executive leadership and strategic direction of the organization. Kearns's mandate involves steering the company's operations in the development and manufacturing of plastic resins and chemicals, ensuring robust market performance and innovation. This pivotal role requires overseeing all business functions, from research and development to global sales and distribution, with a keen focus on sustainable practices and advanced material science. Roger Kearns drives the company's commitment to delivering exceptional value to customers and stakeholders, fostering a culture of operational excellence and forward-thinking strategy. The President & Chief Executive Officer's leadership ensures that NOVA Chemicals maintains its position as a key player in the chemical industry, adapting to market demands and technological advancements. Kearns's strategic oversight is essential for long-term growth and profitability.
    Roger Kearns

    Yemi Okubanjo - Chief Information Officer

    Yemi Okubanjo, the Chief Information Officer at NOVA Chemicals, directs the company's technology strategy and digital transformation initiatives. Okubanjo's leadership ensures that information systems and digital infrastructure effectively support the development and manufacturing of plastic resins and chemicals. This role involves overseeing all IT operations, cybersecurity, data management, and the implementation of innovative technological solutions across the organization. Yemi Okubanjo drives the integration of advanced digital tools to enhance operational efficiency, streamline supply chains, and foster data-driven decision-making. The Chief Information Officer's expertise is crucial for maintaining a secure and scalable technology environment that aligns with NOVA Chemicals' business objectives and market demands. Okubanjo's strategic vision for technology empowers the company to achieve its goals in innovation and sustainability.

    Julie Puddell - Chief of Staff & Director, Joint Venture

    Julie Puddell, the Chief of Staff & Director, Joint Venture at NOVA Chemicals, provides strategic support and operational oversight across key initiatives. Puddell's dual role involves managing critical projects and ensuring seamless collaboration between departments, particularly concerning joint venture operations. This leadership position focuses on enhancing organizational efficiency and driving strategic alignment with the company's goals in plastic resins and chemical manufacturing. Julie Puddell facilitates effective communication and execution of complex business strategies, ensuring that joint venture partnerships contribute significantly to NOVA Chemicals' overall growth and market presence. The Chief of Staff & Director, Joint Venture's responsibilities include optimizing resource allocation and supporting executive decision-making. Puddell's contributions are vital for navigating intricate business relationships and advancing the company's strategic objectives.

    Andrea Tracey - Director, Corporate Strategy & Chief of Staff

    Andrea Tracey, the Director, Corporate Strategy & Chief of Staff at NOVA Chemicals, spearheads strategic planning and operational coordination. Tracey's leadership focuses on defining and executing the company's long-term vision for developing and manufacturing plastic resins and chemicals. This role involves analyzing market trends, identifying growth opportunities, and ensuring strategic initiatives are effectively implemented across all business units. Andrea Tracey drives the alignment of corporate objectives with operational execution, fostering a culture of innovation and efficiency. The Director, Corporate Strategy & Chief of Staff's responsibilities include supporting executive leadership, managing key projects, and enhancing organizational effectiveness. Tracey's strategic insights are instrumental in guiding NOVA Chemicals' path toward sustainable growth and market leadership in the chemical industry.

    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 Chinedu Akunne (Chief Executive Officer & Founder) and Roger Kearns (President & Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of NOVA Chemicals’s executive team?
    The executive team of NOVA Chemicals includes leaders such as Gord Knott (Chief Executive Officer), Chinedu Akunne (Chief Executive Officer & Founder), Roger Kearns (President & Chief Executive Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does NOVA Chemicals have?
    NOVA Chemicals has 6 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, Chief Executive Officer & Founder, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief of Staff & Director, Joint Venture.