Stepan Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Stepan has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, information technology, and executive operations.

Driven by innovation, Stepan manufactures essential chemical components, impacting diverse markets from cleaning solutions to pharmaceuticals with a steadfast commitment to quality and advanced material science.

Leadership Roles at Stepan

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Luis Rojo
  • Executive Office Business Partner and Executive Assistant To Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Genl. Counsel, and Chief Human Resources Officer - Debbie Itter
  • Vice President Chief Financial Officer - James Hurlbutt
  • Chief Information Officer, Exterior - Natalia Botero
  • Luis Rojo - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Luis Rojo, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Stepan, directs the company's overarching strategy and operational execution. Rojo guides Stepan's mission to produce basic and intermediate chemicals, including surfactants, specialty products, and polyurethane polyols, serving critical sectors like cleaning, food, and pharmaceuticals. This leadership role involves setting the strategic direction for market expansion and innovation across all business units. Rojo ensures alignment with the company's long-standing commitment to quality and advanced material science, driving growth and profitability. Overseeing global operations, the President & Chief Executive Officer champions the development of new chemical solutions and maintains Stepan's competitive edge in the global marketplace. By fostering a culture of excellence, Luis Rojo solidifies the company's position as a key supplier in its industry.
    Luis Rojo

    Debbie Itter - Executive Office Business Partner and Executive Assistant To Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Genl. Counsel, and Chief Human Resources Officer

    Debbie Itter, the Executive Office Business Partner and Executive Assistant To Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Genl. Counsel, and Chief Human Resources Officer at Stepan, provides critical operational and administrative support to key executive leadership. Itter manages complex scheduling, facilitates communication, and ensures the smooth functioning of the executive office, directly impacting the efficiency of strategic decision-making. This role is integral to supporting the leadership team's oversight of Stepan's chemical manufacturing, including surfactants, specialty products, and polyurethane polyols. Itter's support enables the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer to focus on driving company performance and market strategy. By coordinating executive activities and managing essential administrative functions, the Executive Office Business Partner ensures seamless operations across departments. Debbie Itter's dedication is fundamental to the effective execution of Stepan's business objectives and its commitment to serving diverse markets.

    James Hurlbutt - Vice President Chief Financial Officer

    James Hurlbutt, the Vice President Chief Financial Officer at Stepan, manages the company's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Hurlbutt oversees all financial operations, including accounting, treasury, and investor relations, ensuring robust financial controls and reporting. This role is critical in supporting Stepan's manufacturing of surfactants, specialty products, and polyurethane polyols by providing the financial framework for operational efficiency and investment. Hurlbutt drives financial strategies that enable the company to meet its objectives in the food, supplement, and pharmaceutical markets. By analyzing market trends and financial performance, the Vice President Chief Financial Officer guides resource allocation to maximize shareholder value and support sustainable growth. James Hurlbutt's financial acumen is essential for navigating the complexities of the chemical manufacturing sector and maintaining Stepan's strong market presence.

    Natalia Botero - Chief Information Officer, Exterior

    Natalia Botero, the Chief Information Officer, Exterior at Stepan, leads the company's information technology strategy and digital transformation initiatives. Botero directs the implementation and management of technology solutions that support Stepan's diverse manufacturing operations, from surfactants and specialty products to polyurethane polyols. This leadership position ensures that IT infrastructure effectively supports business objectives, enhancing operational efficiency and data security across the organization. Botero focuses on leveraging technology to drive innovation in the food, supplement, and pharmaceutical markets served by Stepan. Overseeing the company's digital landscape, the Chief Information Officer, Exterior ensures seamless integration of systems and promotes data-driven decision-making. Natalia Botero's strategic vision for technology is vital for Stepan's continued growth and competitive positioning in the chemical industry.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Stepan Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Stepan?
    Stepan is led by Luis Rojo (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Debbie Itter (Executive Office Business Partner and Executive Assistant To Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Genl. Counsel, and Chief Human Resources Officer) and James Hurlbutt (Vice President Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Stepan’s executive team?
    The executive team of Stepan includes leaders such as Luis Rojo (President & Chief Executive Officer), Debbie Itter (Executive Office Business Partner and Executive Assistant To Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Genl. Counsel, and Chief Human Resources Officer), James Hurlbutt (Vice President Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Stepan have?
    Stepan has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Stepan’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Stepan includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Executive Office Business Partner and Executive Assistant To Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Genl. Counsel, and Chief Human Resources Officer, Vice President Chief Financial Officer, Chief Information Officer, Exterior.