Formerra Names Tom Kelly CEO

Veteran engineered materials executive to lead distribution company's growth

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Formerra, a leading distributor of engineered thermoplastic resins, additives, elastomers, and other specialty materials, has appointed Tom Kelly as its new Chief Executive Officer. Kelly, a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience in the specialty and engineered materials industry, is known for driving differentiated growth and building high-performing organizations. He replaces former CEO Cathy Dodd, who will remain as a Special Advisor to the Board and an investor in the company.

Why it matters

Formerra is a key player in the engineered materials distribution market, serving leading blue-chip customers and suppliers. Kelly's appointment signals the company's focus on accelerating its capabilities in new geographies and adjacent materials to strengthen its competitive position globally.

The details

Tom Kelly brings extensive commercial, supply chain, and distribution experience to his new role as CEO of Formerra. After previous roles at Cabot Microelectronics and Chemtura, his most recent position was as Senior Vice President of Engineered Materials at Celanese, where he led key commercial and operational initiatives across engineered polymers and specialty segments. Kelly is known for his leadership, industry insight, and supply-chain expertise.

  • Formerra announced Kelly's appointment on March 4, 2026.

The players

Tom Kelly

The new Chief Executive Officer of Formerra, a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience in the specialty and engineered materials industry.

Cathy Dodd

The former CEO of Formerra, who will stay on as Special Advisor to the Board and remain an investor in the company.

Formerra, LLC

A leading distributor of engineered thermoplastic resins, additives, elastomers, and other specialty materials, headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio.

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What they’re saying

“Formerra has built a tremendous reputation as a technical selling organization and for putting customers first, supported by exceptional people and supplier partners in the engineered materials ecosystem. I'm excited about the opportunity to build on its strengths and accelerate capabilities in new geographies and adjacent materials. We will continue investing in our people, distribution network, and in our product line card to strengthen Formerra's competitive position globally.”

— Tom Kelly, Chief Executive Officer

The takeaway

Tom Kelly's appointment as Formerra's new CEO signals the company's focus on driving growth and strengthening its competitive position in the engineered materials distribution market through strategic investments in its people, distribution network, and product offerings.