Dow Corning Names President; Burns to Remain Chairman and CEO

Midland-based Dow Corning Corp. says its growth has caused the need to split off the positions of president and CEO.

The company Wednesday named Robert D. Hansen as president, effective immediately. Stephanie A. Burns retains two of the three titles she formerly held at the company, chairman and CEO.

Hansen, 50, has been employed by Dow Corning for 28 years and most recently served as executive vice president and general manager of the company's Core Products Business.

"The next decade for Dow Corning will be one of exciting growth," Burns said. "Our technology is advancing in new innovative directions, our manufacturing operations are expanding and our products are reaching new markets. This kind of growth calls for expanded executive leadership. I am very confident in Bob's leadership and delighted that his dedication to our customers and employees around the world is being recognized this way. As president, Bob brings an immediate, increased and focused attention to our strategic priorities and operations. He has a wealth of global experience and deep knowledge of the industry and its potential. Together, with our entire executive leadership team, he will ensure we deliver on our commitment to grow this sustainable enterprise."

Hansen joined Dow Corning's finance department in 1982 in Midland. Over the years, his leadership roles have taken him all over the world, including executive oversight as manager of the South American Region and president of the European Area. 

Hansen is a graduate of Valparaiso University, where he earned a bachelor of science degree in business administration. He serves on the university's board of directors.  Hansen also serves on the boards for Junior Achievement of Central Michigan and Midland County's United Way. He chairs Midland's United Way campaign for 2010.

A world leader in silicones and silicon-based technologies, Dow Corning offers more than 7,000 products and services to more than 25,000 customers worldwide. Dow Corning is equally owned by Midland-based Dow Chemical Co. and New York's Corning Inc.

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