For 2016, energy cost competitiveness and environmental stewardship continue to be significant priorities for the Michigan Chemistry Council (MCC) and its member companies. Again topping the list of the organization’s annual policy priorities was a call for energy affordability, through policies that increase competition and provide effective regulatory oversight of Michigan’s energy markets. MCC’s Executive Director John Dulmes said, “We brought a lot of attention last year to the problem of Michigan’s sky-high electric rates, and we expect that – if energy legislation is passed this year – it will address our key concern for energy competitiveness to grow jobs in the state.”

LANSING, MI, December 7, 2015 – The Michigan Chemistry Council (MCC) today announced that its Board of Directors has elected a new President and Vice President to serve as leaders for the association for the two-year term of 2016-17.

Greg Pflum, Vice President and General Manager at BASF, will serve as the MCC’s President. Pflum has been a member of the MCC’s Board of Directors since 2011, when he came to BASF through its acquisition of Cognis. As Vice President and General Manager at BASF, Mr. Pflum oversees the company’s operations at its Wyandotte, Southfield, and Fighting Island facilities, which collectively employ nearly 2,000 people. He also serves on the boards of the Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital, the Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber of Commerce, and the Michigan Chamber of Commerce.

Garrett Geer, Vice President of Business Development and Government Relations for AKT Peerless, will serve as the MCC’s Vice President. Mr. Geer heads up business development and policy initiatives for the Michigan-based environmental consulting firm, and joined the MCC’s board in May of 2015. He previously served with T.R. McTaggart, Inc. and The Dow Chemical Company in a number of professional roles. Mr. Geer has also served on numerous industry and nonprofit boards and committees including the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Saginaw Future, Boys & Girls Clubs, Ducks Unlimited and the Michigan Manufacturers Association.