The Aditya Birla Group has appointed John A. Loudermilk to serve as Chief Operating Officer and to lead Birla Carbon effective September 1. Loudermilk joined Birla Carbon with the acquisition of Columbian Chemicals in 2011 after joining Columbian in 2005. 

He has held several key leadership positions including as Vice President, Global Operations and Chief Technology Officer and, most recently, President, North America, Europe & Africa.  Prior to joining Columbian Chemicals, Loudermilk worked for Solutia Inc. and its predecessor, Monsanto Company in diverse leadership roles in business management, sales, supply chain, and manufacturing.

Dr. Misra added, "John's experience leading various aspects of our business will ensure a smooth transition and enable him to be successful in the COO role.  John is a strong and passionate leader who has the full confidence of the Aditya Birla Group to continue our journey to be the most respected, dynamic, and sustainable global carbon black business."

Loudermilk commented, "I am both humbled and excited to get this opportunity to lead this great team.  I look forward to build on our long history and achieve new successes for our customers, communities, and all of our stakeholders."

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