Eduardo Menezes Appointed CEO Amid Proxy Fight Success

Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. announced the appointment of Eduardo Menezes as its new CEO, effective February 7, 2025, succeeding Seifollah Ghasemi after over a decade of service. The decision follows pressure from activist investors and a successful proxy fight led by Mantle Ridge, which resulted in the election of new directors. Menezes, who brings extensive experience from his previous executive roles at Linde plc, will also join Air Products' Board of Directors. Wayne Smith has been named Chairman and Dennis Reilley as Vice Chairman, both of whom will collaborate with Menezes to guide the company's future strategies. The leadership change is aimed at advancing the company and maximizing shareholder value. Menezes expressed his enthusiasm about leading Air Products, highlighting his global experience in the industrial gases sector.