Dr. Wenyang Zhang is a Senior Staff Mechanical Design Engineer from Tesla. He currently leads fluid engineering (lubricant design, selection, specs development, etc.), tribology, and lubricant-related subjects for all current and future Tesla platforms including, but not limited to Model S/X/3/Y/Cybertruck/Semi. He is also responsible for the determination of key lubrication parameters and designs, and is involved in subjects related to cooling and lubrication designs of Tesla drive units.
He is the recipient of multiple awards and serves as associate editor of the ASME Journal of Tribology. He is a Certified Lubrication Specialist (CLS) from the Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers and is a Certified Lubricating Grease Specialist (CLGS) from the National Lubricating Grease Institute.
Wenyang has a B.Sc. in Materials Science and a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering.
Clara Fabre has been serving as the Global Technical Director for IMCD Business Group Lubricants & Energy (L&E) since 2017. In this role, she is responsible for coordinating the L&E network of technical centers and managing a team of Technical Managers. In 2021, Clara expanded her responsibilities by taking on the role of Principal Coordinator for a key supplier of BG L&E.
Before joining IMCD, Clara gained extensive experience in research and development (R&D) and customer technical support, working with oil majors and additive manufacturers. Her educational background includes a Master in Chemistry and a Master in Petroleum Derivatives & Internal Combustion Engines, which she earned from IFP-School (French Petroleum and New Energies University).
Originally from France, Clara moved to Italy in 2015 after spending a few years working in the United Kingdom. Her international experience and educational qualifications have significantly contributed to her expertise in the lubricants and energy sector.
Keith D. Schulz, Jr. is the Chief Sustainability Officer & Chief Industrial Officer at Motul Asia Pacific, based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. He has been with Motul Asia Pacific for more than four years, starting in July 2019. In his current role since January 2021, he leads the industrial fluids, services, and production towards sustainable practices across the region.
Previously, Schulz served as the Executive Vice President at Motul Asia Pacific, where he led strategy, planning, and operations across 16 countries. During his tenure, he achieved significant growth in gross profit and pre-tax profit, and played a key role in restructuring management in Motul’s Singapore operations.
Before joining Motul Asia Pacific, Schulz was the General Director at Vilube Corp., a subsidiary of Motul, from June 2012 to March 2020. There, he led a USD60 million operation and drove a 22% sales CAGR for seven years, significantly increasing profitability.
Earlier in his career, Schulz held the position of Senior Portfolio Director at Navis Capital Partners in Bangkok, Thailand, and was the Managing Director at RPS Technologies, Ltd. He also worked as a Procurement Manager at DaimlerChrysler AG in Singapore and was the Director of the HCM City Office at VATICO, Inc.
Schulz’s educational background includes an MBA from Georgetown University McDonough School of Business, a BA in Economics from Denison University, a Certificate in Executive Education from INSEAD, and participation in the YPO Gold Presidents’ Program at Harvard Business School. He also spent time at the University of Tübingen studying VWL and German Literature.
Martin Stoemmer has recently assumed the position of Business Group Director Lubricants & Energy APAC at IMCD, a role specifically created to leverage his extensive experience. Before this appointment, he served as the Managing Director for IMCD ANZ.
With a career spanning over 30 years in specialty chemicals, Martin has worked in various international locations, including the U.S.A., Germany, and Singapore, primarily with Wacker Chemie AG. He joined IMCD in 2021, bringing a wealth of industry knowledge and expertise to the company.
Martin holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and an MBA in International Business from the American InterContinental University in Arizona, U.S.A. A German national, he currently resides in Melbourne, Australia, where he continues to contribute significantly to the specialty chemicals industry through his leadership and expertise at IMCD.
Matthias Lang currently holds the position of Vice President, Business Management Fuel & Lubricant Solutions Asia Pacific at BASF, a role he has been in since July 2019. He is based in Shanghai, China. Prior to this, he was the Director of Business Management for Paper & Water Chemicals Asia Pacific & Performance Chemicals in Greater China at BASF from May 2018 to January 2019.
From January 2016 to April 2018, Matthias served as the Head of Sales for Paper & Water Chemicals – Europe North in Mannheim, Germany. Earlier, he was the Head of Indirect Sales Water Solutions for Europe, Africa, and the Middle East from April 2012 to December 2015.
Matthias also worked as an Executive Assistant to the President of an Operating Division at BASF from August 2010 to April 2012, where he was involved in the preparation of decision-making processes, organization of top management meetings, and leading significant value creation projects.
Before joining BASF, he was involved in regional new business development for Europe, Africa, and the Middle East at Ciba from October 2007 to October 2009. His role included developing sales and marketing strategies and collaborating with Shell Lubricants.
His educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Fachhochschule Südwestfalen (2008-2013) and a Diploma in Business Administration from Berufsakademie Lörrach (2004-2007).
Maurizio Abbondanza is the Sustainability Director at Infineum UK Ltd., where he is responsible for coordinating, designing, and executing the corporation’s sustainability strategy and integrating it into the broader corporate strategy. Maurizio is deeply passionate about sustainability and actively advocates for the energy transition and the decarbonization of the chemical industry.
In addition to his role in sustainability, Maurizio also manages the Profit & Loss (P&L) for the Driveline and Large Engine business units, overseeing strategy, marketing, and technology delivery. This dual responsibility enables him to consistently align sustainability with business priorities.
With over 25 years of experience in the lubricant additives industry, Maurizio has been a senior executive at Infineum since 2011, holding various roles including Global Procurement Director, Sales Director for the EMEA region, and Global Lubes Technology Director.
Maurizio’s early career encompassed roles in Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Marketing, and Sales, both in global and regional capacities. Throughout his professional journey, he has lived and worked in the UK and Italy.
Maurizio is academically accomplished, holding a Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Genoa, Italy.
Sanjay Verma’s career in the shipping industry began in 1981 when he started working as a Marine Engineer. His early career spanned over 14 years at sea, during which he served on merchant vessels for companies like the Shipping Corporation of India, V-Ships, and Maersk Singapore. In 1995, he transitioned to Lloyds Register, where he worked as a ship and industrial surveyor until 1999.
In 1999, Sanjay joined Wartsila, a company where he has since held various roles in technical sales, business development, and management. His career with Wartsila has taken him to India, Finland, and, since 2009, Singapore.
Currently, as the Director of Decarbonization Solutions at Wartsila Singapore, Sanjay is at the forefront of market innovation, focusing on developing sustainable shipping solutions. His work primarily revolves around energy efficiency solutions and sustainable fuels, reflecting his commitment to making shipping more environmentally friendly.
Sanjay believes strongly in the importance of shipping as a part of the global ecosystem and advocates for immediate action towards choices that benefit both people and the planet. His passion for travel has taken him to 127 countries, enriching his understanding of global diversity and reinforcing his role as a thought leader in the decarbonization of the shipping ecosystem.
Wolfgang Mertel is an experienced professional in the lubricants industry, currently serving as the Head of the Asia-Pacific Specialty Division of FUCHS Lubricants (China) Ltd., a position he has held since August 2019. Based in Shanghai, China, he has been with the company for more than seven years. Prior to this role, Mertel was the Vice President of the Specialty Division in Shanghai, a position he has held since February 2016.
Before joining FUCHS Lubricants, Mertel worked at Klüber Lubrication München SE & Co. KG for more than eight years. During his tenure there, he was the Manager of International Sales Projects from January 2015 to January 2016, focusing on the Munich area in Germany. He also served as the Head of the Business Unit for the Cement & Mining Industry from November 2007 to December 2014. Additionally, Mertel was the Managing Director of Klüber Lubrication Southeast Asia Pte. Ltd. from October 2001 to October 2007, and an Area Sales Manager at Klüber Lubrication München SE & Co. KG from February 1998 to September 2001.
Born on October 19, 1962, in Germany, Mertel is married and has two children, a 25-year-old daughter and a 19-year-old son. He has been living in Shanghai since 2016.
Kazuo Yamamori currently holds the position of Project Manager in the Electrification & Environment Material Engineering Division at Toyota Motor Corporation. He began his career at Toyota in 1997 after graduating with a Master’s degree from Nagoya University. Since joining the company, Yamamori-san has been dedicated to the research and development of automotive lubricants.
In 2014, he took on a leadership role as the head of the Passenger Car Motor Oil Working Group (PCMO-WG) of the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA). Additionally, Yamamori-san serves as the Chair of the Engine Oil Sub-Committee of the Japanese Automotive Standards Organization (JASO), where he has been instrumental in promoting the standardization of JASO GLV-1, among other initiatives.
Dr. Reggie Zhan is a seasoned professional with 30 years of experience in the automotive industry. He is the founder and current President of Emissions Consulting Service, LLC. From 2017 to 2022, Reggie served as a distinguished professor at Shanghai Jiao Tong University in Shanghai, China. His career also includes significant tenures at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) in San Antonio, Texas, U.S.A., where he was a principal engineer from 2002 to 2017, and at Ford Motor Company in Dearborn, Michigan, U.S.A., focusing on emissions control and alternative-fueled vehicle technologies.
Reggie has been instrumental in providing technical support to Chinese authorities for over two decades, particularly in the areas of emissions regulation development, certification, and compliance. He also contributes as a technical expert to various industry organizations, including the Chinese Society of Internal Combustion Engine (CSICE), Committee of Vehicle Emission Control (CVEC, China), China Lubricant Standards Alliance Committee (CLSAC), Manufacturers of Emission Controls Association (MECA, U.S.A.), and the Association for Emissions Control by Catalyst (AECC, EU).
His academic credentials are impressive, with a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering obtained from Ohio University in 1999. He also holds an M.Sc. and a B.Sc. from Tsinghua University, Beijing, China, earned in 1992 and 1989, respectively.
Alex Wang, based in Shanghai, China, is a seasoned professional in the lubricant and additive industries with more than 27 years of experience. A 1989 graduate of Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Alex has developed a deep understanding of the intricacies of machinery lubrication. His expertise was formally recognized in 2006 when he received the “Certified Machinery Lubrication Technician” by the International Council of Machinery Lubrication.
Joining Lubrizol in 2012, Alex is now an integral member of the Lubrizol Global Team of Driveline Electrification. In his current role as Technology Development Manager, Driveline, he focuses on developing e-driveline additive technologies tailored for battery electric vehicles (BEV) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEV). His work extends to pioneering new test methods for electric motor polymer material compatibility and assessing hardware durability under specific operating conditions. Additionally, Alex plays a crucial role in providing technical support to APAC customers, leveraging his extensive knowledge and experience to advance the field of driveline electrification.
Simon is Head of Business Development for KBC in Asia and a Director of KBC Singapore. His KBC career spans 25 years and he’s held roles within KBC’s Technology, Process and Strategic Consulting businesses and Business Development. His industry experience includes: Refinery Configuration and Feasibility Studies, Profit Improvement Programs, Project Leader for Technical Service Programs, and most recently as Executive Sponsor for several major consulting programs in Taiwan, Thailand, Korea, Malaysia and Vietnam.
Gabriel Ho is a seasoned business leader with an 18-year track record in the chemicals and fuels industry, Gabriel had consistently excelled in steering high-performing sales teams across the Asia-Pacific region. Before founding Chemcore Consultants, he held pivotal roles at industry giants such as Infineum, Ecolab, BASF, ExxonMobil and Shell. His techno-commercial expertise lies in transportation fuels, with a profound grasp of challenges and opportunities in land, aviation and marine segments.
Gabriel received his Bachelor (Honours) in Chemical Engineering from the National University of Singapore and his Master of Finance from the University of Hong Kong.
Jake Lee is currently the Director of Engine Oil Product Management for the Asia Pacific region at The Lubrizol Corporation, a Berkshire Hathaway Company. Since joining Lubrizol in 2011, Jake has demonstrated remarkable career progression, initially excelling in sales and product management roles for South Korea. His responsibilities soon expanded to a global scale, where he oversaw product line management for heavy-duty engine oils. Jake’s leadership skills and industry acumen have been further highlighted through various regional commercial leadership roles, including serving as the Business Manager for commercial engine oils in North Asia and as the Pan-segment Business Manager for Korea.
Before his tenure at Lubrizol, Jake honed his skills at GS Caltex, where he was engaged in R&D roles focusing on automotive fuels and lubricating base oils. His significant contributions included playing a pivotal role in the 2007 launch of GS Caltex Kixx Group II base oil.
Jake’s academic background is equally impressive, holding a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), one of the leading research universities in South Korea.
Taiji Yoshimura began his professional journey after graduating with a degree in Electrical, Electronic, Information, and Communication Engineering. He has more than 10 years of experience in the lubricant industry, working with a Japanese lubricant blender, in both the automotive and industrial lubricant segments. His expertise encompasses a diverse range of products, including passenger car motor oil (PCMO), heavy-duty motor oil (HDMO), electric vehicle (EV) fluids for automobiles, and metal working fluids for industrial applications.
Yoshimura also brings experience from his time in procurement with a Japanese original equipment manufacturer (OEM).
Currently, he works for ExxonMobil Japan Godo Kaisha, serving as a Synthetics Customer Application Development Advanced Professional. In this role, he focuses on the synthetic oil business, specializing in developing applications for products using Group IV and Group V base oils.
Dr. Stuart McTavish currently serves as the Market Development Director at SI Group, specializing in Coatings, Fuel, Lubricant, and Oilfield additive chemicals. With over two decades of experience in the Fuel and Lubricant additive industries, Stuart brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role.
Throughout his illustrious career, Stuart has excelled in various capacities, including Product Development, Technical Service, Sales, Marketing, and New Business Development. His professional journey has seen him make significant contributions to several leading organizations in the industry, including SI Group, Croda, ICI – Uniqema, and Infineum.
Raj Padmanabhan currently holds the position of Asia-Pacific Regional Product Line Manager at Chevron Oronite, focusing on automotive engine oils, viscosity modifiers, and small engines. Based in Singapore, Raj brings more than 36 years of rich experience in the oil and additive industry, with a significant 30-year tenure at Chevron Oronite. His role encompasses a wide range of product and technical functions, including automotive, motorcycle, industrial, and specialty engine oils.
Throughout his career, Raj has made notable contributions to the field of lubrication and tribology, evidenced by his extensive publications in various technical journals. His expertise in these areas is well-recognized and respected in the industry.
Academically, Raj holds a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, complemented by a Master’s degree in Business Management.
Bill O’Ryan has worked in the transportation lubricants industry for 30 years. His background includes additive package development, engine, and driveline testing.
He joined the American Petroleum Institute (API) in 2022 and is currently Senior Manager of the Engine Oil Licensing and Certification System (EOLCS). Engine Oils certified under the EOLCS program are authorized to display two marks, the API Service Symbol (aka “Donut”) and the Certification Marks (aka “Starburst” and “Shield”).
In addition, he also manages the Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Certification Program. Fluids certified under the DEF Certification Program are authorized to display the API Diesel Exhaust Fluid Certification Mark. Both voluntary programs help consumers identify quality fluids for their gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles.
He also manages the Aftermarket Audit Program (AMAP), an annual program in which thousands of engine oil and DEF samples are purchased in the marketplace around the globe and tested to ensure conformance with required specifications.
Bill graduated from Cleveland State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Dr. Stephan Baumgärtel embarked on his academic journey at the University of Frankfurt/M., Germany, where he completed his Diplom (Master) in Chemistry in 1991 and his PhD in the same field in 1996.
Dr. Baumgärtel’s professional career began at Mobil Oil Ltd. in Coryton, UK, in 1996, where he focused on the development of industrial oils. This experience was a stepping stone that took him to Mobil Oil Francaise S.A. in Gravenchon, France, in 1997-1998. Here, he continued his work in metalworking and industrial oil development, honing his skills and deepening his knowledge.
In 1999, Dr. Baumgärtel joined Mobil Oil Hamburg in Germany, which became ExxonMobil in 2000. During his tenure here, he held various research positions in metalworking and industrial oil development. His roles evolved over time, including being the OEM contact for industrial oils in 2002 and 2003, and later, the European technical advisor for industrial lubricants in 2004.
The year 2005 marked a new chapter in Dr. Baumgärtel’s career when he became the Group Leader for Industrial Lubricants at VSI, the association of the German lubricant industry. His focus during this period was on HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) questions, classification, and risk assessment.
Since 2010, Dr. Baumgärtel has been at the helm of VSI as the Managing Director. In this role, he has been instrumental in facilitating communication between members, authorities, and politicians. He has also been actively involved in organizing seminars and training courses. His work encompasses various HSE aspects, and he leads technical, sustainability, and regulatory working groups at both national and international levels.
Li Jing has been a pivotal member of Afton Chemical since 2013, leveraging her Master’s degree in Chemistry to excel in her role. As the Technology Manager for the Asia Pacific (AP) Engine Oil Team, she brings more than a decade of expertise in the additive industry. Her tenure has been marked by a focus on developing and differentiating engine oil additives and lubricant formulations.
Over the past 10 years, Li Jing’s contributions have been significant, particularly in her involvement with key projects at Afton’s U.S. and UK branches. Her leadership in developing product solutions for the AP market has been noteworthy, especially in the realms of passenger car motor oil and heavy-duty engine oil, ensuring compliance with API, ACEA, and OEM specifications.
Her extensive experience encompasses a broad spectrum of the AP market, including work with passenger car motor oil (PCMO), heavy-duty engine oil (HDEO), and motorcycle oil (MCO), underscoring her diverse skill set and deep industry knowledge.
Yogesh Jagannath Patil completed his Master’s in Machine Design from Walchand College of Engineering in Sangli, Maharashtra, India, and his Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Pune, now known as Savitribai Phule Pune University, in Pune, Maharashtra, India.
His personal journey, from his academic days in Maharashtra, India, to his current professional endeavors, reflects a dedication to excellence and a passion for innovation in engineering.
At Hindustan Petroleum’s Green R&D Center, where he currently serves as a Manager in the Engine Research Laboratory, Yogesh has been instrumental in developing ICE engines and testing vehicles for alternative fuels. His tenure at John Deere as a Lead Engineer in the Continuous Improvement/Current Product Support team further honed his skills in engineering failure analysis and product improvement, significantly reducing warranty costs.
Previously, Yogesh’s role as a Senior Design Engineer at Cummins Inc. saw him leading the design and development of exhaust systems for 38L engines and intake air handling subsystems for 50L NG mule build engines. His proficiency in CAD software, FEA, and CFD analysis, along with his expertise in GD&T, DFMEA, and Six Sigma methodologies, has been pivotal in his successful career.
Yen Yee’s journey in the field of Chemical and Environmental Engineering began at the prestigious University of Nottingham in the UK, where she earned her licentiate degree. Her academic prowess was evident in her dissertation, which delved into the intricate process of immobilizing enzymes onto ionic liquids.
Following her graduation, Yen Yee’s association with the University of Nottingham continued for four years, during which she embraced the dual roles of a research associate and a PhD candidate. In 2020, she reached a significant milestone in her career by successfully submitting her doctoral thesis. Under the guidance of Assoc. Prof. Suchithra, her thesis provided groundbreaking insights into the upgrading of biodiesel from the pyrolysis of palm biomass, a topic of great relevance in the field of sustainable energy.
Transitioning from academia to the corporate world, Yen Yee joined Oleon Port Klang’s Research and Development Department in 2020. In her current role as an R&D Engineer in the lubricants team, she has been instrumental in driving several projects. Her work involves pushing the boundaries of lubricant technology and contributing to innovative solutions in this dynamic field.
Charlotte Kehoe leads a regional team covering Asia Pacific by translating market needs and future trends into a commercially competitive technology strategy, and then champions and supports deployment activities with the countries. The team provides technical support, customer support, technical advocacy and mitigation of customer complaints and product quality incidents. Ensures their products are compliant and cost effective for high impact product launches by working with product development, product managers, and local marketing, sales and supply chain.
Prior to this role, Charlotte was an Expert Technologist for two years. She managed product quality related incident investigations and developed programs for Asia Pacific. She also led root cause analysis investigations to prevent quality incidents and mitigate quality risks. In addition, she managed the product quality business efficiency program for the fuels and lubricants business.
Alistair Westwood is the Global Marketing Manager for ExxonMobil’s Synthetics Global Business Unit, based in Houston, Texas, U.S.A.. In this role, Alistair is responsible for Product Management, Marketing and Planning for the business’ Group IV (low viscosity and high viscosity polyalphaolefins) and Group V (esters and alkalyated naphthalenes) product portfolios. During his 22+ year career at ExxonMobil Alistair has held a variety of technical, marketing and planning roles. He was responsible for the launch, last year, of the next generation low viscosity, low volatility SpectraSynTM MaX 3.5 PAO off of their new technology platform.
He holds B.Sc., Masters and Doctorate degrees in Materials Science & Engineering from University of Manchester in the UK and Lehigh University in the U.S.A. Prior to joining ExxonMobil, he worked at IBM T.J. Watson Research Center and Union Carbide Corporation.
Emmanuelle Faure-Birchem has spent her career in the energy industry. She started at the French Institute of Petroleum (IFP), as co-author of a technical reference book entitled Fuels & Engines. Then she spent a few years as a research engineer studying the impact of fuel and engine tuning, on engine exhaust emissions.
Emmanuelle joined Chevron Oronite more than 25 years ago. Since then, she has held various positions including in product management, technical support, sales and General Manager for the Global Strategic Account team, as well as various roles in additive industry associations. Since 2022, Emmanuelle is Global Product Line Manager for Lubricants Additives for automotive, small engine engine oils and for viscosity modifiers with a global team.
Kristina Jovic started as a Product Development Manager for lubricant additives at the beginning of 2020 in Darmstadt, Germany, and took the lead over a lab group focusing on new product development in the field of viscosity index improvers at Evonik Oil Additives. Her main focus developed into the field of sustainability, studying raw material options and deepening her knowledge on product carbon footprints.
Before joining Evonik, Kristina did her doctorate at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in Brisbane, Australia. Her research was supported by Evonik Industries AG in the form of a scholarship and focused on the development of new methods for the production of polymethacrylimide foams.
In addition to her doctoral thesis, Kristina was also involved in the chemical community in Brisbane and was the student representative for the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI).
Kristina received her Master of Science degree in chemistry from the University of Stuttgart, Germany. After and during her studies, she completed industrial internships at Bosch and Evonik.
Dennis Bachelder is a Senior Engineer with extensive experience in engine lubrication and performance. He currently works in the Engine Oil Licensing and Certification System at the American Petroleum Institute (API), managing API 1509 specifications and developing new engine oil standards.
Previously, Dennis held roles in lubricant development, testing, and product management at companies including General Electric, Teledyne Continental Motors, and Fairbanks Morse/SEMT Pielstick. He helped develop proprietary engine tests and set lubricant requirements for gasoline and diesel engines.
Dennis earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His educational background and hands-on work with leading engine manufacturers give him unique expertise in engine lubricant technology and performance requirements.
Greg Miiller has worked at an international level for the petrochemical industry over the past 28 years. His career progressed from engineer to Vice President of Engineering and New Business for the Savant Group. Over the years he has been co-awarded 15 patents for designs on testing equipment and has authored many technical papers. He is currently the 1st vice chair of ASTM D02 and serves in leadership roles in the Coordinating European Council, Energy Institute of England, SAE and GFC France. In addition, he founded the Global Lubricants Group in 2019.
Steven Bartholomeusz is the Head of Public Affairs for Asia Pacific at Neste, and leads all public policy and advocacy efforts in the company’s engagement with governments, public sector organisations, think tanks and other key stakeholders in the region.
He is responsible for working with stakeholders to develop policies related to transport and the circular economy, covering Neste’s Renewable Road Transport, Renewable Aviation and Renewable Polymers and Chemicals businesses. He has been actively involved in advocacy and the development of policies related to sustainable aviation fuel and biofuels for the transport sector in the region. With the need to advance acceptance of a wide feedstock base for biofuels as well as access to feedstocks, Steven also supports the Feedstock Growth and Supply teams in the region.
Steven is an experienced public affairs professional with m 25 years of international, regional and local experience in the oil and gas industry, hydropower and public utilities, food and beverage industry.
Emmanuel Matray has recently been appointed to the position of Head of Performance Fluid Department at TotalEnergies Lubrifiants, covering Technology & Products development for driveline and e-driveline lubricants, EV fluids and lubricants for industrial equipment.
With a career spanning more than 20 years in the lubricants industry, Emmanuel has been holding various roles in the TotalEnergies global lubricants business line, including product development, sales, teams and business unit management.
His educational background includes a Bachelor of Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (2003).
Arnaud Radigue has carved a distinguished career in the specialty lubricants and synthetic esters sector, currently serving as the Business Manager at NYCO for the Asia Pacific region. With more than 16 years of experience at NYCO, he has demonstrated exceptional skill in various capacities, including Laboratory Research and Management, Marketing, Technical Service, and Product Management.
Arnaud’s academic foundation is robust, holding a BA in Polymer Materials and Engineering and an MBA from Shanghai University of Finance and Economics. His tenure at NYCO has seen him excel in roles such as Business Manager for the EAME (Europe, Africa, Middle East) region in the Industry & Automotive branch since 2016. In this role, he has been responsible for the technical and commercial strategy across the EAME region, focusing on synthetic esters base-stocks and finished lubricants like PCMO, MCO, HT Chain oils, compressor oils, industrial oils, and greases. His strategic focus on Asia, particularly China, Australia, and Southeast Asia, has been pivotal in expanding the company’s reach.
Arnaud’s expertise extends to the synthetic transformer oil segment, where he has managed key accounts such as ABB, Schneider, Alstom, GE, MR, and Siemens. He has played a crucial role in coordinating worldwide development strategies, with a focus on India and the Middle East, and has been a specification expert in IEC 61099, IEC 63012 (TC10), and EEE.
Before his current role, Arnaud was the Commercial & Marketing Director for the Defense, Oil & Gas segments at NYCO’s Paris office, where he developed a sales strategy for lubricants used in engines and airframes. His leadership in the aeroderivative turbine oil range for the Oil & Gas business has been instrumental in securing first-fill contracts with OEMs, engine makers, and airframers.
Arnaud’s career also includes significant contributions to ARKEMA as a Product & Project Development Manager, where he led stage-gate project management that resulted in a substantial industrial investment. Prior to that, he was a Business Development Manager at ATOFINA, focusing on water treatment, lubricants, catalysts, pharmaceuticals, and coatings.
His early career at Elf Atochem as a Development Engineer laid the groundwork for his expertise in water treatment and the gold mine process. Arnaud’s scientific endeavors also took him to Warwick University in the UK, where he developed a commercially viable polymerization technique.
Arnaud’s educational background includes a Master of Science (MSc) in Polymers from the University of Warwick, where he graduated with distinction, and an Engineer’s degree in Chemistry from Ecole Nationale Supérieure de Chimie de Rennes.
Dr. Kyoko Kojima has dedicated over a decade to advancing the wind industry and spearheading oil condition monitoring research. As a seasoned research scientist at Hitachi, Ltd. in Tokyo, Japan, she leads the oil condition monitoring research project with distinction. Dr. Kojima’s academic journey began at Keio University, Japan, where she delved into organic chemistry, later earning a PhD in engineering from the same institution.
Throughout her tenure at Hitachi, Ltd., Dr. Kojima has undertaken a variety of pivotal roles. Her career has spanned semiconductor materials development, chemical analysis instruments development, and the pioneering project on wind turbine gearbox condition monitoring, among others. Her recent research endeavors concentrate on oil condition monitoring for large rotating machinery, a critical area for ensuring operational efficiency and longevity in industrial applications.
Dr. Kojima’s contributions to the field have not gone unnoticed. She has been honored with several academic awards and holds national patent awards in Japan, testament to her innovative work and its impact on the industry.
Dr. Nguyen Huynh Phuong Uyen embarked on her academic journey at the Vietnam National University – HCMC, University of Natural Science, where she pursued her undergraduate studies from 2000 to 2004 and later returned for her master’s studies from 2009 to 2011. She further advanced her education at Osaka Prefecture University, Japan, where she dedicated herself to research and development from 2015 to 2020.
Dr. Nguyen is at the forefront of developing green biodiesel production technologies from oil seeds, with a particular interest in the antioxidant capabilities of nano-bubbles when dispersed into biodiesel. Her research primarily revolves around the manufacturing process of high-quality biodiesel fuel utilizing the co-solvent method. Additionally, she explores the dispersion of ultra-fine bubbles to enhance the oxidation stability of biodiesel, aiming to improve the efficiency and sustainability of the biodiesel and sustainable aviation fuel production process.
Yasuaki Maeda is a distinguished Japanese academic currently serving as a Guest Professor and an Emeritus Professor at Osaka Metropolitan University, Japan. His illustrious career is rooted in a strong educational foundation obtained from Waseda University in Tokyo, Japan, where he earned his Bachelor and Master of Applied Chemistry between 1960 and 1966. He further advanced his studies by obtaining a PhD in Engineering from the Graduate School of Engineering at the Tokyo Institute of Technology between 1966 and 1970.
Over the years, Professor Maeda has been honored with several prestigious awards that recognize his contributions to environmental science and engineering. Notably, he received the Vietnam-Japan 40 Years Anniversary Award from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment on October 16, 2013, an Environmental Minister Award in 2012, and an Honorable Award from the Environmental Protection Agency of the People’s Republic of China in May 1996.
Professor Maeda’s professional journey is marked by significant roles that reflect his expertise and commitment to his field. Since October 2008, he has been a Research Professor at the Osaka Prefecture University’s Organization for Industry, University, and Government Cooperation. His international experience includes serving as a JICA Expert in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment at the JICA Vietnam Office from 2004 to September 2008. His tenure at Osaka Prefecture University has been long and varied, holding positions as a Research Professor since 2007, becoming an Emeritus Professor in the Graduate School of Engineering in 2005, and serving as a Professor in the Graduate School of Engineering from 1990 to 2005. Additionally, his postdoctoral work took him to the National Research Council in Canada from 1977 to 1979.
Leonard Wong embarked on his journey with Vanderbilt Japan, LLC in 2022, taking on the role of Regional Account Manager with a focus on South, Southeast Asia, and Oceania. Operating from his base in Japan, Leonard brings a unique international perspective to his role, underpinned by his academic background from the National University of Singapore.
In 2012, Leonard made a significant life and career shift, moving from Singapore to Japan. This transition marked the beginning of a new chapter in his professional journey. Before venturing into the lubricants sector, Leonard was deeply involved in the Food Packaging Industry, where he honed his skills and developed a keen understanding of market dynamics and customer needs.
Athena Chen is a distinguished professional in the field of automobile engineering, holding both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree from Tongji University in China.
Athena’s career is marked by a diverse and progressive tenure at Lubrizol, where she has excelled in various pivotal roles. Her journey in the company has seen her evolve from Sales Manger to OEM Manager, further expanding her expertise as a Marketing Development Manager, then advancing to Product Manager, and ultimately, stepping into the role of Driveline Business Manager for China.
Ching Mei Ang boasts an impressive tenure of more than 16 years in the lubricant industry, marking her journey’s beginning at Lubrizol 13 years ago. Initially stepping into the role of a project manager for Engine Oils, she focused on supporting operations across Southeast Asia. Today, Ching Mei has ascended to the position of Senior Manager, where she spearheads the Lubrizol Additives technology deployment team, extending her influence across Southeast Asia, Australia, Japan, and South Korea. Her primary responsibility lies in leading her team to deliver market-driven technical solutions that not only meet but exceed customer expectations in both automotive and industrial sectors. This includes pioneering initiatives towards future mobility.
Ching Mei’s academic foundation is as robust as her professional journey, holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the prestigious National University of Singapore.
Micky Lee is a Chemical Engineer with a Doctorate from Monash University Malaysia, where his research focused on the innovative surface modification of chromatography adsorbents using thermo-responsive polymers. Since embarking on his professional journey in 2017, Micky has made significant contributions to the field of polymer and lubricant technologies.
Initially joining Oleon Port Klang Sdn. Bhd., Micky applied his expertise as an R&D Engineer within the polymer additive division, before transitioning to the lubricant division. His work has spanned across multiple facets of product development, including Metalworking Fluid (MWF) formulation, chemical synthesis, and tribology.
Currently, Micky is an R&D Engineer in lubricants, leveraging his extensive experience and innovative approach to contribute to advancements in lubrication science and engineering.
Avelyn Lim serves as the Lead Technical Service and Development Specialist at Dow Industrial Solutions Singapore, a position she has held since 2018. In her role, Avelyn is pivotal in providing technical support to customers and spearheading product and application development across key segments in South East Asia (SEA) and Australia/New Zealand (ANZ), with a particular focus on Performance Lubricants and Fuel Additives. Additionally, she oversees operations as the laboratory manager at the Dow Singapore Development Center, contributing to over 10 internal and external publications that underscore her expertise and contributions to the field.
Prior to her tenure at Dow, Avelyn amassed a decade of industrial R&D experience, specializing in organic and inorganic synthesis and characterization, as well as formulation development for a diverse range of applications. Her academic credentials are equally impressive, holding a Master of Science degree in Materials Science and Engineering from the National University of Singapore, obtained in 2012. She also earned a Bachelor of Engineering with Honors in the same discipline from Nanyang Technological University in 2008, laying a solid foundation for her distinguished career.
Sally Chiew serves as the Regional Product Manager at Chevron Oronite, where she oversees the Industrial Engine Oils, Specialties, and Fuels (IEO/S/F) product segment activities across the Asia-Pacific region. With a distinguished 25-year tenure at Chevron Oronite, Sally has held various pivotal roles, including that of an Account Manager. In this capacity, she managed relationships with multiple countries in the Asia-Pacific region, catering to both global and regional customers.
Before her current appointment, Sally excelled as a Market Strategy Manager. She provided comprehensive support in the Asia-Pacific region, focusing on pricing strategies, demand planning, contract management, and marketing initiatives, among other areas.
Sally’s extensive experience in the oil industry is further enriched by her previous positions at Chevron Lubricants and Castrol. Her career trajectory showcases a deep and broad expertise in the sector, underscored by a consistent track record of driving growth and fostering strategic partnerships across the Asia-Pacific landscape.
Dr. Jun Dong currently serves as the Global Technical Manager for the Fuel and Lube Additives Department at SONGWON International Group. His professional journey commenced in 2001 as a Lubrication Engineer at Bethlehem Steel Corporation. His career path then led him to Crompton Corporation (now integrated into LANXESS) in the U.S. state of Connecticut, where he contributed as an R&D and Technical Service Scientist specializing in lubricant antioxidants. In 2011, Dr. Dong took on a new challenge at Afton Chemical in Richmond, Virginia, U.S.A., dedicating six years as a Senior Scientist and Technical Lead, focusing on key global OEMs within the ATF R&D division. He is a distinguished alumnus of McGill University in Montreal, Canada, where he earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry.
Mingyin Hu currently serves as the Regional Technical Service Manager for Fuel & Lubricant Solutions Asia Pacific at BASF, where his expertise is focused on lubricant additives. With a career spanning more than 15 years at BASF, Mingyin has demonstrated exceptional skills and leadership in a variety of roles. His experience encompasses Laboratory Research and Management, Marketing, Technical Service, and Product Management, showcasing a comprehensive understanding of the industry from multiple perspectives.
Mingyin’s academic background is as impressive as his professional journey. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Polymer Materials and Engineering, further enriching his knowledge with a Master of Business Administration from the prestigious Shanghai University of Finance and Economics.
Jin-Long Lin is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on Tribology at National Formosa University, Taiwan (R.O.C). His interest in the field of tribology sparked during his undergraduate years, leading him to embark on his academic research journey. His current research focuses on tribology, lubricant analysis, and green lubricants.
