APR 29

Winning in the Age of AI: New Growth Playbook for Chemical Companies | Dan Futter, Dow & Chris Musso, McKinsey

What does it actually take to win commercially in the age of AI — and how is it different from what chemical companies have done before? In this episode of DigiChem Dialogues, host Jay Bhatia sits down with Dan Futter, Chief Commercial Officer at Dow, and Chris Musso, Senior Partner and Global Chemicals Lead at McKinsey, for an unscripted conversation on one of the most urgent questions facing the chemical industry right now. Dan and Chris pull no punches. From AI-mediated customer discovery and the death of traditional SEO, to the data foundation every company needs before any of this works, to why the bottleneck for most chemical companies right now isn't operations — it's commercial growth. Key topics covered: How AI is fundamentally changing the way chemical buyers discover and evaluate products — and what that means for your go-to-market strategy. Why putting a chatbot on your website isn't enough — and what Dow has actually built to prepare for the AI-mediated search era, including a generative AI search agent going live on Dow.com June 1st. How AI agents are being used to find new customers, qualify leads, and handle early-stage conversations at a scale no sales team could match. Why clean, structured, and contextual product master data is the non-negotiable foundation — and how to think about getting there. What will separate chemical companies that scale AI into a real growth engine from those still stuck in pilots three years from now. Whether you run a $50M specialty chemical business or a $5B global operation, this conversation will give you a clear-eyed view of where the industry is heading and what you need to do about it. Show Notes / Guest Bios: Dan Futter is the Chief Commercial Officer at Dow, one of the world's largest chemical companies with over $40B in annual revenue. Dan has led commercial transformation at Dow for over 30 years, including building out Dow.com into a major digital demand generation engine and spearheading the company's AI-driven commercial strategy. Chris Musso is a Senior Partner at McKinsey & Company and leads the firm's global chemicals practice. Chris has advised chemical companies around the world on commercial transformation, AI adoption, and growth strategy, and holds a PhD in materials commercialization. Jay Bhatia is the Founder and CEO of Agilis Commerce and host of DigiChem Dialogues — an executive series bringing together the most senior commercial and digital minds in the chemical industry.

57 min

MAR 17

You Can’t Cook AI in a Dirty Kitchen: Data & Architecture Foundations with Allnex CIO

AI is on every agenda, but in the chemical industry, most initiatives struggle for a simple reason: the foundation isn’t ready. In this episode of DigiChem Dialogues, Jilles Eissen (Global CIO, Allnex) joins Jay Bhatia (CEO, Agilis) to break down why “you can’t cook AI in a dirty kitchen,” and what it actually takes to make AI deliver real outcomes. Drawing from experience across manufacturing, R&D, and enterprise systems, Jilles explains how years of growth, acquisitions, and local optimization have left many companies with “spaghetti kitchens”: complex, fragmented landscapes that AI will only amplify. The path forward isn’t more tools, it’s better foundations: clear ownership, structured data, aligned processes, and architecture that reflects today’s company, not yesterday’s. What You’ll LearnWhy AI amplifies messy data and disconnected systemsWhat “data context” actually means in practiceWhere organizations lose control (R&D → production → commercial handoffs)Why data governance is a leadership responsibility—not an IT taskHow to move from “spaghetti” complexity to scalable, layered systems About the GuestJilles Eissen is the Global CIO of Allnex, a leading producer of industrial coating resins and additives. He leads enterprise-wide digital transformation across data, architecture, and operations in a global manufacturing environment. About DigiChem DialoguesDigiChem Dialogues is a podcast series featuring leaders across the chemical industry, focused on practical insights in digital transformation, data strategy, and AI. Follow DigiChem Dialogues for more conversations with industry leaders on making digital transformation real in chemicals.

53 min

05/15/2025

Omnichannel Excellence & AI-Driven Innovation: Transforming Customer Experience at Henkel

In this episode of DigiChem Dialogues, we sit down with Sebastian Förster, Manager of Customer Experience Activation at Henkel Adhesive Technologies and Henkel’s 2025 Corporate Influencer of the Year. Sebastian takes us inside Henkel’s approach to building immersive, value-driven customer experiences in a complex B2B world — blending digital tools, physical Inspiration Centers, and co-creation with customers to drive real impact. We discuss: ✅ How Henkel bridges physical and digital CX through innovation hubs like the Inspiration Center ✅ Practical strategies for co-creating with customers at scale ✅ Using data and feedback loops to drive continuous CX improvement ✅ Real-world AI use cases in marketing, R&D, and automation ✅ Why storytelling and emotion matter in B2B customer journeys ✅ Tips for chemical companies looking to start small and scale smart in digital transformation Whether you’re a CX leader, digital strategist, or marketer in the chemical industry, this episode is packed with insights you can act on. 🎧 Listen now and learn how customer-centric thinking can shape the future of B2B engagement. 📍 Watch the full episode on-demand: digichemdialogues.agiliscommerce.com/omnichannel-excellence-ai-driven-innovation-transforming-customer-experience-at-henkel

58 min

01/29/2025

Leadership & Innovation in the Chemical Sector: A Conversation with Megan Gluth

In this groundbreaking episode of DigiChem Dialogues, host Jay Bhatia interviews Megan Gluth, the pioneering CEO of Catalynt and the first female Chair of the Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD). Episode Highlights: An intimate look at Megan's remarkable journey from rural Iowa to leading a top chemical distribution companyInsights into human-centered Capitalism and Innovative Leadership StrategiesExploring the transformative impact of digital technology and AI in the chemical industryCandid discussions about women's leadership and industry evolution Discover the critical demographic shifts reshaping the chemical workforce, with Millennials and Gen Z expected to comprise 75% of the industry within the next 4-5 years. Megan provides expert perspectives on how AI and digital technologies are revolutionizing chemical distribution and when digitalization will transition from a "nice to have" to a "must-have". About the Guest: Megan Gluth is the CEO & Owner of Catalynt Solutions, a certified women-owned chemical supplier recognized on the Puget Sound Business Journal's 2023 Middle Market Fast 50 list. She's also the recipient of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2023 award. A must-listen for industry professionals, aspiring leaders, and anyone interested in the future of chemical distribution and innovative leadership. Hosted by Jay Bhatia, Founder and CEO of Agilis.

46 min

11/20/2024

AI and Digital Transformation in the Chemical Industry with Westlake CDO, Constantyn Chalitsios

DigiChem Dialogues presents an engaging episode featuring Constantyn Chalitsios, exploring the cutting-edge intersection of AI and digital transformation in the chemical industry. This conversation delves into the innovative approaches and strategic insights for leveraging technology to drive operational excellence. Key highlights of the episode include: AI Implementation Strategies: Constantyn shares practical approaches for integrating artificial intelligence into chemical industry processes, highlighting the transformative potential of digital technologies.Digital Transformation Insights: Explore the challenges and opportunities of digital adoption in the chemical sector, with a focus on how organizations can effectively navigate technological change.Technological Innovation: Discover the latest trends in digital solutions that are reshaping the chemical industry's operational and customer engagement models.Future of Chemical Distribution: Gain valuable perspectives on how AI and digital tools are creating new opportunities for efficiency, innovation, and competitive advantage.Tune in to learn from Constantyn Chalitsios's expert insights on driving digital transformation and AI adoption in the chemical industry.

49 min

11/20/2024

Navigating the Future: Challenges & Opportunities in Chemical Distribution with Eric Byer

DigiChem Dialogues presents an insightful episode featuring Eric Byer, President and CEO of the Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD). In this engaging discussion, Eric shares his expertise on the evolving landscape of the chemical distribution industry and the recent transformation of ACD. Key highlights of the episode include: Key Priorities: Discover ACD's strategic focus areas, including sustainability, regulatory compliance, and talent retention in the context of digital transformation.Digital Strategies: Gain insights into how technology is being leveraged to enhance customer experiences and streamline operations within the chemical distribution industry.Collaboration and Support: Understand how ACD is fostering collaboration among its members to embrace digital tools and best practices effectively.Future Trends: Explore emerging trends in digitalization that are shaping the future of chemical distribution and how organizations can prepare for these changes. This episode offers valuable insights for industry professionals seeking to understand the current state and future direction of chemical distribution. Tune in to hear Eric Byer's expert perspective on navigating regulatory challenges and driving industry growth through strategic organizational changes.

42 min

11/20/2024

Getting Your Global Organization Digital Ready - Strategies & Lessons from Evonik's CDO, Henrik Hahn

DigiChem Dialogues presents an enlightening episode featuring Henrik Hahn, Chief Digital Officer of Evonik Industries, as he shares invaluable insights from Evonik's digital transformation journey. This episode offers a comprehensive look at strategies for preparing a global organization for the digital age in the chemical industry.Listeners will gain expert knowledge on: Evonik's digital evolution, from initial experimentation to full-scale implementationPractical approaches and starting strategies for embarking on a digital transformation journeyCritical lessons learned from both successful and challenging digital initiativesEffective methods for achieving organizational alignment on digital projectsThe transformative potential of AI in the chemical industry and how to leverage itHenrik shares his firsthand experience of Evonik's digital journey, including the establishment of a dedicated unit for digital exploration in 2016. He discusses the importance of fostering a "digital mindset" across the organization and how this cultural shift drives value more than technology alone. This episode provides actionable insights for chemical industry professionals at any stage of their digital transformation. Whether you're just starting out or looking to optimize existing digital strategies, Henrik's expertise offers valuable guidance on navigating the complexities of digitalization in a global chemical company. Tune in to learn how Evonik is leveraging digital solutions and AI to enhance operational efficiency, improve customer experiences, and drive innovation in the chemical sector. Discover strategies you can apply to prepare your own organization for success in the digital era.

47 min

11/20/2024

Best Practices and Lessons Learned from a Successful Digital Transformation Journey with Marius Vaarkamp

DigiChem Dialogues presents an illuminating episode featuring Marius Vaarkamp, Business Director of Fuel and Lubricant Solutions at BASF, as he shares invaluable insights from BASF's successful digital transformation journey. This episode offers a deep dive into the practical aspects of implementing digital solutions in the chemical industry. Listeners will gain expert knowledge on: Proven strategies for seamlessly integrating digital tools into existing business processesOvercoming challenges in digital adoption among customers and internal teamsBalancing innovation with minimal disruption to ongoing operationsKey lessons learned from BASF's e-commerce implementation for their OPPANOL® product line Marius shares his firsthand experience of how BASF's digital commerce portal, developed in collaboration with Agilis, has significantly improved sales efficiency and customer engagement. He discusses the tangible benefits observed, including growth in sales, increased repeat orders, and enhanced customer satisfaction through self-service features. This episode provides actionable insights for chemical industry professionals looking to embark on or optimize their digital transformation journey. Whether you're a seasoned executive or a digital transformation enthusiast, Marius's expertise offers valuable guidance on navigating the complexities of digitalization in the chemical sector. Tune in to learn how BASF is leveraging digital solutions to create a more efficient, customer-centric approach to chemical distribution and discover strategies you can apply to your own organization's digital evolution.

42 min

11/20/2024

How USAF Veteran Colie Whitaker is Transforming Chemical Distribution with a Digital Customer Experience

DigiChem Dialogues presents an insightful episode featuring Colie Whitaker, a USAF veteran turned chemical distribution leader, as he shares his transformative journey in digitizing the industry. This compelling discussion explores how The Whitaker Company rapidly implemented a digital customer portal, revolutionizing its approach to chemical distribution. Listeners will gain valuable insights into: Colie's unique path from military service to spearheading innovation in chemical distributionThe strategic decision-making process behind launching a digital customer portal in just three monthsWhitaker's vision for leveraging digital solutions to reshape the future of chemical distributionPractical strategies for overcoming common obstacles in digital transformation initiativesThis episode offers a rare glimpse into the real-world challenges and triumphs of digital adoption in a traditional industry. Whether you're a chemical industry professional or interested in digital transformation across sectors, this discussion provides actionable takeaways and inspiration for embracing technological change. Tune in to discover how digital solutions are reshaping customer experiences and operational efficiency in the chemical distribution landscape straight from a leader at the forefront of this evolution.

47 min

DigiChem Dialogues

Episodes

Winning in the Age of AI: New Growth Playbook for Chemical Companies | Dan Futter, Dow & Chris Musso, McKinsey

You Can’t Cook AI in a Dirty Kitchen: Data & Architecture Foundations with Allnex CIO

Omnichannel Excellence & AI-Driven Innovation: Transforming Customer Experience at Henkel

Leadership & Innovation in the Chemical Sector: A Conversation with Megan Gluth

AI and Digital Transformation in the Chemical Industry with Westlake CDO, Constantyn Chalitsios

Navigating the Future: Challenges & Opportunities in Chemical Distribution with Eric Byer

Getting Your Global Organization Digital Ready - Strategies & Lessons from Evonik's CDO, Henrik Hahn

Best Practices and Lessons Learned from a Successful Digital Transformation Journey with Marius Vaarkamp

How USAF Veteran Colie Whitaker is Transforming Chemical Distribution with a Digital Customer Experience

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