Barentz, a global specialty ingredients solution provider, has appointed Rocky Prior as president of performance materials, North America. Prior will succeed Howard Hubert, who is retiring after more than 10 years of leadership at the company. The two will collaborate in the coming months to ensure a smooth transition.

Prior brings extensive industry experience, having held executive and commercial leadership roles in specialty chemical distribution and manufacturing. He began his career as a coatings chemist and later founded a specialty paint company.

“It has been a privilege to work with Howard over the past decade,” said Mike McKenna, chief executive officer of Barentz North and Central America. “Howard’s leadership and strategic vision have left a lasting impact on our organization. With Rocky’s appointment, we have selected an industry veteran who understands how to create value for customers and principal partners. We are excited to welcome him to our North American leadership team.”