Textile chemistry

2019-06-06

Kemin names Kimberly Nelson president of Garmon Chemicals

Kemin Industries, a global ingredient manufacturer focused on improving the quality of life for more than half the world’s population, has appointed Kimberly Nelson, who helped lead the acquisition of Garmon Chemicals by Kemin, as President of the Kemin Textile Auxiliaries business unit, effective July 1, 2019.

Nelson named second president of Garmon Chemicals, Kemin’s Textile Auxiliaries Business, in more than 35-year history

Nelson will be taking over as President of Garmon Chemicals when the company’s founder, Maurizio Cappellini, retires. For more than 35 years, Cappellini led Garmon Chemicals to the top of the denim finishing industry with his innovative and avant-garde vision.

“We are deeply thankful to Maurizio for his strong leadership, professionalism and the amazing success he has achieved in his career. We wish him many happy years in his retirement and are grateful for his dedication to Garmon Chemicals,” said Dr. Chris Nelson, President and CEO, Kemin.

Garmon Chemicals was acquired in January 2018 after Kimberly, a third-generation Nelson family member which owns Kemin, presented the business opportunity of textile auxiliaries three years prior. Since the acquisition, Nelson has served as General Manager of Kemin Textile Auxiliaries in India. Her appointment as President is a key element in Kemin’s strategic growth plan that will drive Garmon Chemicals to advance its leadership position in the industry by further developing the brand’s R&D scope, commercial footprint and services.

“This is a big step for Kemin’s vision to continue as a family-owned-and-operated company,” said Dr. Nelson. “For Garmon Chemicals, the pace of change in today’s global markets is exceptional. As President of Garmon Chemicals, Kimberly will ensure that Kemin stays at the forefront of this evolving industry. She will continue Garmon Chemicals’ innovation and leadership in textile auxiliaries.”

This transition marks a new chapter in Garmon Chemicals’ more than 35-year history. Kemin has solidified its commitment to playing a significant role in the textile markets and will continue to provide high-quality products and services.

Reflecting on her appointment, Kimberly Nelson said, “I am honoured and excited to lead this wonderful company. The legacy of Maurizio Cappellini will only be strengthened as we continue to develop, innovate and create. I’m determined to continue Garmon’s momentum by elevating its global presence, leveraging the first-class operations and extraordinary R&D capabilities to further our creative and sustainable initiatives.”

Nelson received her bachelor’s degree from Northwestern University in 2012, and a master’s degree in Luxury and Fashion Management from Savannah College of Fashion and Design in 2016. Before joining Kemin, she worked in marketing in Hong Kong for five years. Nelson will be based in San Marino.