As the Director of Global Operations at Lawter Inc., Joost van Helden plays a pivotal role in steering the company’s operational excellence across nine manufacturing facilities worldwide, including locations in Belgium, the Netherlands, China, South Korea, New Zealand, Argentina, and the USA. With a robust...
As the Director of Global Operations at Lawter Inc., Joost van Helden plays a pivotal role in steering the company’s operational excellence across nine manufacturing facilities worldwide, including locations in Belgium, the Netherlands, China, South Korea, New Zealand, Argentina, and the USA. With a robust background in the chemical and energy sectors, Joost leverages over 20 years of experience to drive strategic initiatives that enhance production efficiency, optimize costs, and ensure the highest standards of quality and safety. His leadership is characterized by a commitment to lean transformation and continuous improvement, which are critical in today’s fast-paced industrial landscape.
At Lawter, Joost is at the forefront of integrating sustainable practices into operations, aligning with the company’s mission to contribute to the circular economy through innovative chemistry solutions derived from renewable resources, such as pine. His expertise in process engineering and project management allows him to lead complex projects that not only improve operational performance but also support the company's sustainability goals. Joost’s focus on process safety management and asset integrity ensures that all manufacturing activities adhere to stringent health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards, fostering a culture of safety and compliance across all facilities.
In addition to his technical acumen, Joost excels in team building and stakeholder engagement, cultivating a collaborative environment that empowers employees to contribute to operational success. His proficiency in statistical data analysis and advanced process controls further enhances his ability to make data-driven decisions that propel Lawter’s operational strategies forward. As he continues to champion innovation and efficiency, Joost remains dedicated to transforming challenges into opportunities, embodying the belief that “it always seems impossible until it is done.”
