Dow names new CEO as part of multi-year succession strategy
Dow has announced a leadership transition that will see Chief Operating Officer Karen S. Carter appointed as Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1, 2026, while current Chair and CEO Jim Fitterling will become Executive Chair of the Board.
According to Dow, the change follows a multi-year succession planning process designed to ensure continuity as the company advances its materials science strategy. Carter will also join the Board of Directors upon assuming the CEO role, while Richard Davis will continue as Independent Lead Director.
Fitterling, who has served as CEO since 2018 and Board Chair since 2020, will remain in a leadership role as Executive Chair. In that position, he will oversee board governance, long-term strategy, and external relationships while supporting leadership continuity.
During his tenure, Fitterling guided Dow through its separation from DowDuPont and led efforts to streamline operations, strengthen its portfolio, and focus on higher-growth, market-driven segments. The company also advanced initiatives related to sustainability, safety, and operational performance under his leadership.
Carter brings more than 30 years of experience at Dow and currently oversees global business and operational performance as Chief Operating Officer. Her responsibilities have included leadership of operating segments and key functions, as well as efforts to strengthen customer engagement and accelerate innovation.
Previously, Carter led Dow’s Packaging & Specialty Plastics business, where she focused on capacity expansion, asset optimization, and operational reliability, while advancing circular economy initiatives with customers.
Dow stated that the leadership transition is intended to maintain strategic alignment and operational execution as the company continues to focus on growth, innovation, and value creation.