Air Products & Chemicals Strengthens Leadership with New Board Member Howard Ungerleider
- Air Products appoints Howard Ungerleider as a director to enhance leadership and governance in the industrial gases sector.
- Ungerleider brings 30 years of financial leadership experience, crucial for guiding Air Products’ strategic initiatives.
- The company focuses on clean hydrogen development, aligning with global demands for sustainable energy solutions.
Air Products Welcomes New Board Member to Strengthen Leadership in Industrial Gases
Air Products & Chemicals, a prominent player in the industrial gases sector, enhances its leadership team with the appointment of Howard Ungerleider as a director, effective September 1, 2025. This strategic move, announced on August 20, 2025, signifies the company’s commitment to strengthening its governance and financial oversight as it continues to lead the industry. Chairman Wayne T. Smith commends Ungerleider, highlighting his extensive 30-year background in global business and financial leadership specifically within the chemicals and specialty materials sectors. This experience is expected to bring valuable insights as Air Products navigates the competitive landscape of industrial gases.
Ungerleider's impressive resume includes a notable tenure at Dow Inc., where he served as President from 2018 to 2023 and Chief Financial Officer from 2014 to 2023. His leadership experience also encompasses executive roles in Advanced Materials and Performance Plastics, showcasing his breadth of knowledge across diverse segments of the chemical industry. As he joins the Audit and Finance Committee at Air Products, his financial acumen will be instrumental in guiding the company’s strategic initiatives and ensuring robust fiscal management. Furthermore, Ungerleider’s current role as an Operating Advisor for Clayton, Dubilier & Rice adds to his experience, positioning him as a valuable asset in advancing Air Products’ mission.
Air Products has established itself as a leader in clean hydrogen development, which aligns with global demands for low- and zero-carbon energy solutions. The company’s focus on large-scale clean hydrogen projects not only supports its operational objectives but also positions it as a critical player in the transition to sustainable energy sources across various industries, including refining and transportation. By integrating Ungerleider’s expertise into its governance framework, Air Products aims to bolster its strategic efforts in delivering essential industrial gases while addressing the growing emphasis on environmental responsibility.
In addition to his role at Air Products, Ungerleider serves on the boards of American Airlines Group Inc. and Kyndryl Holdings Inc., further expanding his influence across multiple sectors. He holds an M.B.A. from UCLA and a Bachelor of Business Administration from The University of Texas at Austin, underscoring his strong educational foundation in business management.
As the industrial gases leader continues to innovate and adapt to the evolving energy landscape, the addition of Ungerleider to the Board of Directors is a pivotal step toward reinforcing Air Products’ commitment to sustainability and operational excellence.