Graphite Innovation & Technologies (GIT), provider of the world’s most sustainable marine coating has welcomed Kent Young to its Board of Directors.

Young will provide strategic guidance and expertise across a range of areas as GIT scales-up its business into a global, world-class coating company. His extensive background in coatings, along with his experience in supply chain, risk management, raw material selection, R&D processes, and product innovation will accelerate GIT’s growth. Young also has a wealth of experience in leading teams that deliver market-impactful product innovations, process optimization, and new solutions to enhance customer value will further enhance GIT’s market position.

“I am excited to join the GIT Board of Directors and support GIT’s leadership team to execute on their mission to provide innovative, sustainable coating solutions to ship owners and operators around the world– products that truly have an impact on energy efficiency and global sustainability targets,” said Young.

According to GIT’s CEO, Mo AlGermozi, “This appointment will see us further expand our intellectual capabilities through Kent’s coatings expertise and leadership. We are excited to welcome Kent to GIT!”

As the former Senior Director of Technology for the Global Supply Chain R&D at Sherwin-Williams, Young brings an abundance of knowledge, expertise, and experience in the coatings industry. He has led multiple cross-functional teams supporting innovation and growth initiatives including internal polymer R&D and supply activities for Sherwin-Williams architectural business segments. In addition, Young led the Open Innovation & External Technology teams including university partnerships, government initiatives, and start-up ecosystem activities supporting Sherwin-Williams’ innovation and growth strategies. He holds numerous patents, was the winner of the 2020 Maurice Holland Award from the Innovation Research Interchange (IRI), and led the team that won the 2011 US EPA Green Chemistry Award.

“On behalf of GIT’s Board, we are delighted to welcome Kent onboard! His experience in coating, new material development and advanced manufacturing brings tremendous value to GIT, and we look forward to working with Kent to accelerate the decarbonization of maritime shipping and better protect the world’s fragile marine ecosystems,” said Matt Stanley, Partner, BDC Capital, ClimateTech Fund.