LION ELASTOMERS LEADERSHIP
stands strong with cross-disciplined, industry-experienced leaders dedicated to quality, environmental sustainability, customer partnership and product development.Kho Irani
President & CEO
Kho joined the Lion team after more than 17 years at ExxonMobil where he held a variety of management positions, including roles as Global Marketing Manager of EPDM and Global Tire Technology Manager. Kho holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Rice University and earned his Master of Business Administration degree from the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas.
Leigha Rainey
Director of Human Resources
Leigha Rainey joined the Lion in 2022 with over 15 years of HR experience at multi-national Chemical and Construction companies including Albemarle Corporation, Olin Corporation, and Turner Industries. Over the course of her career, Leigha progressed through various HR positions including Generalist and Site HR Manager before ultimately becoming the Director of Human Resources at Lion Elastomers. Leigha’s broad experience includes supporting and leading initiatives in labor relations, talent management, policy development, and compensation strategy. Leigha holds a degree in Human Resources Management and Nursing
Andrew Rowe
Chief Accounting Officer
Andrew brings over 20 years’ experience in audit, financial reporting, and controls. Prior to joining Lion Elastomers, Andrew worked as a Financial Controller at Excel USA and John H. Carter Company. Andrew holds a BS in Accounting from Southeastern Louisiana University.
Bhavesh Shah
Vice President, Technology
With over 20 years of experience in the manufacturing industry, including 15 years in polymers, Dr. Shah offers a strong blend of technical expertise and leadership. He has progressed through roles of increasing responsibility across technical support, product development, and R&D. Bhavesh holds a Ph.D. in Polymer Composites from Michigan State University, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Technology from North Maharashtra University and a Master’s degree in Polymer Engineering and Technology from the Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai.
Gary Niernberger
Vice President, Purchasing
Gary has more than 15 years of experience in petrochemical purchasing. Prior to joining Lion Elastomers, he worked for INVISTA as the global sourcing commercial leader for bulk raw material commodities and led the sourcing analysis and strategy efforts. Gary holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Friends University in Kansas and a Master of Business Administration degree from the Marshall School of Business at the University of Southern California.
Edward Geier
Director of Supply Chain
With nearly 20 years of experience in the polymers and petrochemical industries, Edward brings a well-rounded background spanning commercial, operational, and supply chain functions. Prior to joining Lion Elastomers, he progressed through a series of leadership roles at ExxonMobil in Sales, Supply Chain, and Manufacturing. Edward holds a BS in Chemical Engineering from Louisiana State University.
George Panagopoulos
Vice President, Sales
George joined the Lion team after more than 22 years at ExxonMobil Chemical in Commercial leadership positions in the EPDM, TPV, Plastomers and Polyethylene businesses. His most recent role was Regional Sales Manager- Americas for the EPDM and Santoprene businesses. Prior to working with Exxon, he worked for Dow Chemical and Himont. He held management roles in technology and licensing. George has a B.S. and M. S. in Plastics Engineering from the University of Mass-Lowell and an MBA from the University of Delaware.
David Durr
Corporate, Environmental Health and Safety
David has over a decade of experience managing and improving environmental, health, and safety programs within the chemical manufacturing industry. Prior to joining Lion, he spent the majority of his career at BASF, where he held roles of increasing EHS responsibility. David holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from Lamar University and is a Certified Safety Professional (CSP).