Toray Plastics America names new president and COO

Toray Plastics (America), Inc., a North American manufacturer of polyester (PET) and polypropylene (PP) films, has appointed Richard Schloesser to president and COO. In his new role, Schloesser will be responsible for expanding North American operations, including the Torayfan division (polypropylene film), Lumirror division (polyester film), and PEF Division (olefin foams), and driving the development of the packaging-film business in eastern and western Europe.  In addition to managing the operating divisions of Toray Plastics, Schloesser will oversee all of the company’s supporting functions and will be an adviser to Toray Industries’ board of directors. The appointment will be effective June 26. He succeeds Kojiro Maeda who will become chairman of the board.

Schloesser’s many achievements during his 18 years of service with Toray Plastics have been significant. He spearheaded Toray Plastics expansion into Europe, establishing a business unit in Toray Films Europe S.A.S. (also known as TFE), in Rhne-Alpes, France, for the production and development of Torayfan value-added biaxially oriented polypropylene high-barrier metallized film starting in 2010.

‘Rick Schloesser’s outstanding service to Toray and remarkable accomplishments distinguish him as a vital leader within the company and the industry,’ says Kojiro Maeda.  ‘His stewardship has been critical to the company’s growth and we anticipate only continued success from Rick in his new position.’

‘I’m very pleased to be recognized by the board of directors and look forward to helping the company maintain its vitality, drive to innovate, manufacturing excellence, and competitive spirit,’ says Schloesser.