Canlak Coatings announces new CEO

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North Brunswick-based Canlak Coatings, a portfolio company of SK Capital Partners and leading formulator and manufacturer of high-quality wood coating systems, recently appointed Laura Posadas as its new CEO, succeeding Jim Coccagno.

Effective Oct. 7, Posadas will focus on accelerating Canlak Coatings’ growth initiatives, improving operational efficiency and further strengthening the company’s position in the global market.

An accomplished executive with more than 20 years of experience in global leadership roles, Posadas joins Canlak from the Matrix Adhesives Group, where she served as chief commercial officer, supporting the integration and directing the growth strategies of five private equity-backed specialty chemical companies.

Prior to her time at Matrix, Posadas held senior leadership roles within the specialty chemicals industry, including president of Castrol Americas for BP and global business development director for Henkel.

“I am honored to join Canlak Coatings and excited about the opportunity to lead this talented team,” Posadas said. “Canlak has built a strong reputation for quality, innovation and customer focus and I am eager to build upon this legacy, advancing the company’s growth and delivering exceptional value to our customers and partners.”

Randy Dearth, Canlak Coatings board member and senior director at SK Capital, expressed confidence in Posadas’ leadership, stating: “We are thrilled to welcome Laura as the new CEO of Canlak Coatings. Her deep industry knowledge, combined with her strong track record of driving results, makes her an exceptional choice to lead Canlak into its next phase of growth. We believe her leadership will bring a fresh perspective and sharpen the Company’s strategic direction. We are grateful to Jim for his contributions during his time at Canlak and wish him the best in his future endeavors.”