Croda creates new role for spotting new technology

The Goole, East Yorkshire-based group said Keith Layden has joined its board as an executive director.

Mr Layden, who joined Croda in 1984, has been president of its enterprise technology and actives businesses for the past seven years.

Croda said he has overseen “significant growth in innovation” and expansion into new product areas.

In the new role he will spearhead spotting, developing, licensing and buying new technology. He will also co-ordinate Croda’s research and development.

“Keith’s appointment to the board is recognition of the importance the capture of external technologies is to our short and medium term growth plans,” said Croda chief executive Steve Foots. “This is an exciting new role for Keith and the organisation.”

Chairman Martin Flower added: “His wealth of experience of the chemical industry and its related technologies will be of great value during the next phase of Croda’s development.”