PLZ Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

PLZ has 5 executives leading key functions including information technology, overall strategy, cleaning and food solutions, personal care, and specialty products.

Driven by innovation, PLZ manufactures a diverse range of specialty aerosol and liquid products, impacting home and industrial markets with essential cleaners, solvents, and personal care items.

Leadership Roles at PLZ

  • President - Charles Posey
  • President, Cleaning & Food Solutions - Kathy Elkey
  • President, Personal Care Solutions - Ben Gambrel
  • President, Specialty Solutions - Gregory Bourdon
  • Chief Information Officer - Phalalochana Vankayalapati
  • Charles Posey - President

    Charles Posey, the President at PLZ, guides the overarching strategic direction and operational execution of the company. Posey's leadership encompasses the broad spectrum of PLZ's manufacturing capabilities, from cleaners and polishers to industrial solvents, lubricants, degreasers, adhesives, sanitary supply disinfectants, insecticides, air fresheners, and personal care products. This executive role involves fostering a culture of innovation and operational excellence across all divisions, ensuring alignment with the company's mission to provide high-quality specialty aerosol and liquid products for home and industrial use. Charles Posey works closely with divisional presidents to drive market expansion and maintain strong customer relationships. The President's strategic vision is critical for navigating the competitive landscape and ensuring sustained growth for PLZ, headquartered in Downers Grove, Illinois.

    Kathy Elkey - President, Cleaning & Food Solutions

    Kathy Elkey, the President, Cleaning & Food Solutions at PLZ, spearheads the strategic development and operational management of product lines targeting the cleaning and food service industries. Elkey's purview includes overseeing the manufacturing and distribution of specialized cleaners, disinfectants, and related chemical solutions essential for maintaining hygiene and operational standards in both commercial and industrial settings. This leadership position involves driving product innovation, optimizing supply chain logistics, and ensuring compliance with stringent industry regulations. Kathy Elkey collaborates with sales and marketing teams to expand market penetration and enhance customer satisfaction within these critical sectors. The President, Cleaning & Food Solutions' focus on quality and efficacy directly supports PLZ's commitment to delivering reliable chemical products for home and industrial applications.

    Ben Gambrel - President, Personal Care Solutions

    Ben Gambrel, the President, Personal Care Solutions at PLZ, directs the strategic vision and operational execution for the company's personal care product division. Gambrel's responsibilities include overseeing the development, manufacturing, and marketing of a wide array of personal care items, including air fresheners and other consumer-focused aerosol and liquid products. This executive role emphasizes innovation in product formulation, packaging, and consumer appeal to meet evolving market demands. Ben Gambrel works to ensure that all personal care offerings adhere to the highest quality and safety standards, reinforcing PLZ's reputation for excellence. The President, Personal Care Solutions' leadership drives the expansion of this segment, contributing significantly to PLZ's overall market presence and revenue generation from its Downers Grove, Illinois base.
    Ben Gambrel

    Gregory Bourdon - President, Specialty Solutions

    Gregory Bourdon, the President, Specialty Solutions at PLZ, leads the strategic initiatives and operational oversight for the company's diverse range of specialty chemical products. Bourdon's leadership encompasses critical areas such as industrial solvents, lubricants, degreasers, and adhesives, serving a broad spectrum of industrial clients. This executive position involves driving product development, optimizing manufacturing processes, and ensuring the consistent delivery of high-performance solutions tailored to specific industry needs. Gregory Bourdon collaborates with cross-functional teams to identify new market opportunities and enhance PLZ's competitive standing in the specialty chemicals sector. The President, Specialty Solutions' expertise is vital for maintaining PLZ's commitment to quality and innovation across its extensive product portfolio.
    Gregory Bourdon

    Phalalochana Vankayalapati - Chief Information Officer

    Phalalochana Vankayalapati, the Chief Information Officer at PLZ, directs the company's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Overseeing all IT operations, Vankayalapati ensures the seamless integration of systems that support PLZ's extensive manufacturing processes for cleaners, polishers, industrial solvents, lubricants, degreasers, adhesives, disinfectants, insecticides, air fresheners, and personal care products. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity protocols, data management, and the implementation of new technologies to enhance operational efficiency across the organization. By optimizing the digital landscape, Phalalochana Vankayalapati directly contributes to the company's ability to innovate and maintain its competitive edge in the specialty aerosol and liquid product market. The Chief Information Officer's focus remains on leveraging technology to drive business growth and ensure robust data security for PLZ's operations based in Downers Grove, Illinois.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding PLZ Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads PLZ?
    PLZ is led by Charles Posey (President), along with executives such as Kathy Elkey (President, Cleaning & Food Solutions) and Ben Gambrel (President, Personal Care Solutions).
    Who is part of PLZ’s executive team?
    The executive team of PLZ includes leaders such as Charles Posey (President), Kathy Elkey (President, Cleaning & Food Solutions), Ben Gambrel (President, Personal Care Solutions) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does PLZ have?
    PLZ has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in PLZ’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of PLZ includes roles such as President, President, Cleaning & Food Solutions, President, Personal Care Solutions, President, Specialty Solutions, Chief Information Officer.