HOUSTON – Kuraray America Inc. (KAI) has appointed Hitoshi Toyoura as the company’s new President and CEO.

Toyoura joins KAI from the Osaka, Japan, office where he served as a Director and Senior Executive Officer of Kuraray Co. Ltd. During his 35-year tenure with the company, he has worked for the fiber sector and has held numerous leadership positions. An experienced international business leader, Toyoura spent more than 20 years of his early career in the paper and non-woven fabrics business, followed by four years in the filament, spinning yarn and fiber reinforcement business. Toyoura assumes the role of President after the retirement of George Avdey, who served as the company’s President for five years of his 18-year tenure with the company.

“Together with a dedicated team, I look forward to continuing the momentum of Kuraray America’s growth within the specialty chemical industry,” said Toyoura. “I’m confident my history with the company will bring a unique perspective to the KAI team, while we continue our commitment to safety, our customers’ needs and our community.”

Kuraray is a leader in performance-based polymer and synthetic chemistry technologies, including resins, chemical, fibers and textiles. With research and production facilities located in Houston, Texas, and a vast network of supply from around the world, Kuraray leads the industry in specialty dental, fiber, resin and elastomer products.