Dow names Karen Carter as new CEO

Midland, Michigan — Dow Inc. has appointed Karen Carter as chief executive officer, effective 1 July, succeeding Jim Fitterling, who will move into the role of executive chair.

The US group said Carter will “lead the execution of Dow’s global strategy and management of its enterprise operations.”

Fitterling, meanwhile, will “focus on long-term strategy, governance and key external relationships” as executive chair of the board. 

Carter has more than 30 years of experience at Dow and has served as chief operating officer since December 2024, said Dow 14 April.

As COO, she was responsible for “business and operational performance across the company” and oversight of its operating segments.

She previously led Dow's largest business segment: Packaging & speciality plastics; and earlier served as chief human resources and inclusion officer.

Fitterling will remain a director until the 2027 annual meeting. Richard K. Davis will continue as "independent lead director."