Cash To Head Axalta Industrial Coatings; PPG Appoints Braun as VP Industrial Coatings

Axalta and PPG both made major announcements in who will run their industrial coatings divisions.

 

Michael Cash has joined Axalta Coating Systems from AkzoNobel Coatings. Kevin Braun has been appointed vice president of PPG's industrial coatings, Americas, effective immediately, replacing Richard Zoulek, who has left the company.

 

Cash joined Axalta Coating Systems as Senior Vice President and President, Industrial Coatings. In this newly created position, Mr. Cash will be responsible for developing and executing global business strategy for customer segments in which Axalta already holds strong positions with well established brands.

 

“Michael’s wide range of experience with both powder and liquid applications will enable Axalta to take our customer service to the next level,” explained Charles Shaver, Axalta Chairman and CEO. “Looking ahead, Michael will be able to expand our industrial offerings, bringing established and diverse brands such as Imron, Alesta and Voltatex to new markets while understanding emerging customer needs for innovative solutions.”

 

Cash will oversee three core business segments, some of which use both Axalta liquid and powder coatings. Prior to joining Axalta, Mr. Cash was Managing Director, Powder Coatings - Asia Pacific Region at AkzoNobel Coatings and Chemicals where he was responsible for the company’s powder coatings business in eleven countries and oversaw twelve manufacturing facilities. Previously, he was in charge of AkzoNobel’s powder business throughout the Americas.

 

Mr. Cash also held a number of positions at The Sherwin-Williams Company. He was Vice President, Automotive International, where he was responsible for sales and general management in all markets outside the U.S. and Canada. Earlier in his career, Mr. Cash was Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Carstar Automotive, a U.S. autobody repair franchise.

 

Braun was most recently appointed vice president, global raw materials and Americas purchasing.

 

"Kevin is a superb leader who combines excellent product and manufacturing experience with a keen awareness of the industry and market trends," said Viktor Sekmakas, PPG executive vice president.

 

Braun, who joined PPG in 1991, also has served as PPG's general manager, silica products, and general manager, architectural coatings, Australia/New Zealand. Previously, he held roles of increasing commercial responsibility in industrial coatings, fiber glass and architectural coatings in the United States.

 

He holds a Bachelor of Science in industrial engineering from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Capital University.