Two new chemists have joined Michelman as the company focuses on research and development in preparing to expand its product offerings. Talia Collins has assumed the position of senior research chemist responsible for new business development and Michelle Nilsen has assumed the position of senior research chemist responsible for performance additives. Both hold PhD degrees in organic chemistry and bring valuable experience to these important positions.

“We’re excited about the high caliber of professionalism these chemists bring,” said director of technology, new business development, John Homoelle.

Ms. Collins has seven years of experience at International Paper where she worked in process and product development. Meanwhile, Ms. Nilsen has eight years of experience at OSi/GE Silicones where her diverse involvement will provide unique insights into emulsions and performance additives.

Two recent appointments were made by the Maxcess International management team. In the first, Scott Haney has joined the company as tension control product manager. Mr. Haney will lead product development for MAGPOWR brakes, clutches and tension control products. Mr. Haney brings more than 15 years of manufacturing and industrial experience to his new position, including several engineering and management positions where he has provided product development strategy and brand leadership. Most recently, he served as director of engineering and director of operations at VAC Corporation.

In the second appointment, Marcel Hage has taken over as president, North America and Exports. Mr. Hage will take on one of the key positions that will lead the organization through its goal of accelerated growth while maintaining customer focus for the Fife, MAGPOWR and Tidland brands. His newly expanded role will now include responsibility for the North American sales and marketing efforts for Maxcess, operations for Fife, MAGPOWR and Tidland in North Am­erica, Japan as well as export business.

In his prior position as group vice president for Maxcess, Mr. Hage was instrumental in establishing the companies of Maxcess as market and technology leaders in the supply and service of engineered products for the web handling industry. “Providing the right product and service offerings to customers has been the key to success for all of the Maxcess companies”, said Mr. Hage. “We’ve been fortunate to have strong relationships with our customer base, who have communicated what they need to improve their process lines—ultimately we’ve been able to implement many best practices to provide them with what they’ve requested.”