Azelis appoints Mike Finelli as CEO Americas

Azelis, the reference innovation service provider in the speciality chemicals and food ingredients industry, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mike Finelli as CEO Azelis Americas and member of the company’s Executive Committee, effective 9 November 2026. Mike Finelli succeeds Todd Cottrell, who will leave Azelis at the end of October 2026, following a jointly agreed decision with the company. 

Mike Finelli brings more than 30 years of international leadership experience in the speciality chemicals industry, having built his career with Syensqo and Solvay. He has held senior commercial, operational and strategic leadership positions across multiple geographies, including as President of Solvay’s largest speciality business. Most recently, he combined the roles of Chief Technology Officer and leader of several strategic growth initiatives at Syensqo. He holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and marketing from Albright College and an MBA from Rutgers University. 

Todd Cottrell has led Azelis Americas for the past three years, playing a crucial role in leading the implementation of the company's strategic programmes and guiding the organisation through a period of significant transformation. Azelis thanks him for his commitment and contributions to the development of the business in the Americas. 

Anna Bertona, Azelis Group CEO, comments: 

“I am delighted to welcome Mike to Azelis and our Executive Committee. His combination of strategic thinking and strong commercial and innovation leadership makes him a great match to lead our Americas business into its next phase. Together with his extensive industry knowledge and strong focus on customers and principals, he brings the experience, energy and ambition to build on our foundations and drive the business forward. 

I would also like to sincerely thank Todd for his many contributions to Azelis. Over the past three years, he has led the Americas organisation through an important period of transformation with commitment, authenticity and passion. I wish him every success for the future.” 

Mike Finelli, incoming CEO of Azelis Americas, adds: 

“I am excited to join Azelis and lead the next chapter of our Americas business. Azelis’s strong relationships with customers and principals, its focus on innovation and its ambition for continued growth provide a strong foundation to build on. I look forward to being on the ground, engaging with our people, customers and principals across the region. My first priority will be to work with the team to identify how we can build on our strengths and support the continued growth of the Americas business.”