Episode 43: Driving innovation in lubricants: Spotlight on Iconic’s Daiane Spadari
In the male-dominated world of lubricants, Daiane Spadari has emerged as a trailblazer. Currently, the research and development executive manager at Iconic Lubrificantes, a joint venture between Chevron and Ipiranga, Spadari oversees the innovation pipeline for Texaco and Ipiranga lubricants in Brazil. With more than 17 years of industry experience, she is driving advancements that position Iconic as a leader in Brazil’s USD1.3 billion lubricant market.
Spadari’s journey began humbly at Brazil’s first biodiesel company, where she gained her first exposure to innovation and leadership. “It was my first chance to lead, and it taught me the importance of being a good leader,” she shared in a recent podcast. Her early career inspired her to pursue advanced education, including a Master’s in Chemistry and an MBA in Personnel Management, paving the way for her leadership in R&D.
Returning to the industry in 2010, Spadari joined Ipiranga and later transitioned to Iconic Lubrificantes, where she played a pivotal role in its formation in 2018. Today, Iconic is the largest lubricant supplier in Brazil, holding over a quarter of the market share. Ipiranga is Brazil’s second-largest fuel retailer.
Under Spadari’s leadership, Iconic has achieved several milestones, including the establishment of Latin America’s largest private R&D lab. The facility boasts more than 300 state-of-the-art lab equipment and more than 50 professionals dedicated to developing cutting-edge solutions.
Spadari believes in tailoring products for regional needs. “Brazil’s unique conditions, such as high biodiesel and ethanol content, require robust formulations to handle oxidation and corrosion challenges,” she explained. Her team’s solutions not only meet international standards but are also optimised for local markets, ensuring better performance and sustainability.
While Spadari acknowledges the historical challenges women face in technical fields, she notes progress within Iconic. “Three of our four managers are women. In my team, the sole man is the ‘diversity’ member,” she jokes, highlighting a significant shift in gender dynamics. She encourages more women to pursue careers in R&D and views diversity as a driver of innovation.
Sustainability is a cornerstone of Iconic’s strategy under Spadari’s guidance. From exploring bio-lubricants made from renewable sources to evaluating circularity in used oils, her team is pushing boundaries. “We’re committed to not just creating better products but also reducing emissions and extending machinery life,” she said.
As the Brazilian lubricant market grows, Iconic and Spadari are positioned to shape its future. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and diversity, Spadari exemplifies leadership that inspires. “Innovation and sustainability are at the core of everything we do,” she said.
Spadari’s journey from a budding chemist to a leader at the forefront of Brazil’s lubricant industry underscores the impact of resilience, education, and vision. As she continues to challenge norms and drive change, the industry will undoubtedly benefit from her fearless approach to innovation.
