LyondellBasell taps insider Bhavesh Patel as new CEO

Chemical maker LyondellBasell Industries has named Bhavesh “Bob” Patel, who leads its international manufacturing business, to serve as its CEO.

Patel takes over from James Gallogly effective January 12. Gallogly announced in September his plans to retire.

“After a rigorous selection process, we chose Bob Patel based on his proven leadership, his outstanding track record, and his numerous contributions to the success of LyondellBasell,” said Robert Gwin, chairman of the company’s supervisory board, in a statement.

Since October 2013, Patel has served as executive vice president for olefins and polyolefins in Europe, Asia and International and technology. In that role, he is responsible for the company’s manufacturing operations outside of the Americas, the company said.

Patel has worked at Houston, Tex.-based LyondellBasell since March 2010. Previously, he was at Chevron and Chevron Phillips Chemical Co.

“Moving forward, we will build upon the strong foundation Jim has established,” Patel said in a statement. “I truly believe our greatest achievements are yet to come and I look forward to the next exciting chapter in LyondellBasell’s future.”

Bhavesh Patel.