Felipe Ramon Fernandez Latorre

Head of Processes and Projects
Fertiberia Group

Felipe Fernandez Latorre, born in Ubeda, Spain, in 1981, is a Chemical and Industrial Engineer with a robust academic foundation from University of Huelva, where he obtained degrees in Chemical Engineering and Industrial Engineering. Prior to his current role, Felipe's diverse experience included positions as a laboratory analyst, consultant, and researcher, working on projects ranging from quality management systems to the characterization of heavy petroleum fractions. Since joining GrupoFertiberia in 2007, Felipe has been instrumental as the Technical Department Manager at the ammonia and urea plant in Palos dela Frontera. Thanks to his solid technical training and industrial experience, he has driven significant advancements in the field of industrial engineering. His efforts have been crucial in the modernization of Fertiberia's Palos Factory facilities, enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability. His leadership in applying best available techniques underscores a commitment to continuous improvement, securing his reputation as a pivotal figure in the chemical processing industry.

Tobias Kimpel

Technologist
thyssenkrupp Uhde GmbH

Dr. Tobias Kimpel is a chemist with a specialization in green technologies and decarbonization. He holds a PhD in Heterogeneous Catalysis (Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis) from TU Eindhoven, The Netherlands. Since 2022, he has been employed at thyssenkrupp UHDE as a technologist within the Incubation Unit of the Green Technologies and Decarbonization Department. In this role, he contributes to the development of sustainable energy solutions, with a primary focus on the production sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) via the methanol route. 

Jacob Grose

CEO
Copernic Catalysts

Jacob Grose, Ph.D. is the CEO/Co-founder of Copernic Catalysts, a Boston-based startup leveraging computational materials design and high-throughput experiment to develop transformational drop-in catalysts for sustainable ammonia and e-fuel production. Prior to founding Copernic, Jacob was an Investment Manager for BASF Venture Capital, where he headed the Boston office, sourcing and managing investments related to current and future businesses of BASF. He has worked at the intersection of chemistry and entrepreneurship for more than 15 years, interacting with multiple startups in a variety of roles at BASF and Lux Research. Jacob received his Ph.D. in physics from Cornell University.

Henry Rushton

Director, EMEA Hydrogen Lead
ING Bank

Director, Energy Sector & EMEA Lead for Hydrogen, ING Bank

Henry has overall responsibility for ING’s Hydrogen activities in EMEA and has been a member of the Hydrogen team since its inception in early 2020. Henry joined ING in 2010 working in its structured finance Shipping team in London. Since then, he has held roles within Offshore Energy covering the Americas from ING’s New York office and since 2018 has been part of the bank’s Energy Sector coverage team based in Amsterdam.

He has been involved in several transactions advising clients in raising capital & debt for Hydrogen related projects (including SAF) as well as structuring project finance debt.

Seiji Shinoda

Process Engineer
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd

Mr. Seiji Shinoda is a Process Engineer in the Product Technology Development Group. With two years of dedicated experience in the development of ammonia cracking technology, he serves as the lead for process development. His expertise and leadership have been instrumental in advancing innovative solutions within the field, contributing significantly to the company's goals in sustainable technology. Passionate about driving efficiency and effectiveness in chemical processes, he continues to explore new frontiers in product development and engineering.

Ryota Shimura

Manager
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd

Mr. Ryota Shimura is General Manager of the Process Engineering Department, bringing over 20 years of experience to EPCM business of ammonia and fertilizer plant. For the past two years, he has been actively involved in the development of ammonia cracking technology, serving as the Project Director for this initiative. His extensive background in process engineering, combined with his leadership skills, has been instrumental in guiding the project towards innovative solutions and successful outcomes. He is committed to advancing sustainable technologies and fostering a culture of excellence within the team.

Francesco Baratto

Head of SynGas Department
Casale SA

Francesco Baratto joined CASALE GROUP in 2004, where he worked initially as Process Engineer, mainly involved in the field of ammonia, methanol and its derivates. In March 2010 he was appointed Technology Development Section Manager, responsible for a group of people in the Research & Technology department with the duty of preparing technical proposal and feasibility studies and giving process support to the development of new technologies and optimization of existing ones. In December 2012 he was appointed Deputy Department Head of Syngas Process department, with particular duty of coordinating technical proposal and feasibility study activities. Since November 2018 he is head of Syngas Department in the Process Division. Mr Baratto graduated from Politecnico di Milano in Chemical Engineering in July 2004 and holds a Master of Science in Chemical Engineering from University of Illinois in Chicago (April 2004).

Matt Pitcher

Head of Technology - Hydrogen
Technip Energies

Matt is Technip Energies’ Head of Technology for Hydrogen/Syngas.  He is accountable for the associated technology portfolio, R&D program, and product development across multiple global operating centers.  Matt also supports business development, project delivery, and  product-line competitiveness. Matt is a USC Viterbi chemical engineer with 30 years’ techno-commercial experience in petrochemicals, syngas and ammonia.  He is keen on process optimization & intensification, leveraging continuous improvement through the value chain, and generating value through collaborative innovation.  Matt spent five years providing manufacturing support and growth project development at an energy major, and holds patents in syngas and ethylene technology.

Reidar Tveit

Project Director, Yara Technology and Projects Global Plants
Yara Technology and Projects HUB Scandinavia

Muhammad Majid Latif

Vice President Technical
Engro Fertilizers Limited

Mr. M. Majid Latif, holds a degree in Chemical Engineering and presently is Vice President Technical in Engro Fertilizers Limited. Mr. Majid is a expert in process engineering with particular know-how in conceptual/ basic design, simulation, safety reviews and project implementation. His background comprises the design, debottle-necking & trouble shooting of specific Ammonia, Urea & power plant equipment as well as whole plants. Carries in depth know how of design standards like ASME, API, Exxon Design and Engineering Practices, simulation software’s like HYSYS, Gatecycle, Pipesim & GIPS. With professional experience since 1994, Mr. Majid was responsible as Engineering Manager in a variety of fertilizer and power projects within and outside Engro Corporation.

Colin Bateman

Director of Technical Sales and Strategic Accounts
Integrated Global Services (IGS)

Colin graduated in 1996 with a Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering from Newcastle University and has 25+ years of experience in developing and specifying protective barrier solutions for mission critical assets.  Working in the Energy Sector, he currently supports asset owners in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, helping them to manage and mitigate their erosion and corrosion challenges through the utilization of robust surface protection technologies, developing preventative maintenance programs.

Wim Kerkaert

Technical Process Owner Urea
Yara Belgium SA/NV

Sergio Robledo

Senior Technical Manager
UNICAT Catalyst Technologies, LLC

Sergio is the Senior Technical Manager at UNICAT Catalyst Technologies, LLC, where he provides expert technical advice on the selection, use, and operation of catalysts and technologies. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Chemical Engineering from Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, NJ, and has over 25 years of refining experience, including 8 years working directly for an operating company, specializing in hydroprocessing catalyst operations. Sergio began his career with ExxonMobil and has held roles at Delek US and another catalyst supplier.

Usman Asif

General Manager - Operations
Engro Fertilizers Pakistan Limited

Mr. Asif is an accomplished and forward-thinking Chemical Engineer with a remarkable 18-year track record in the Ammonia-Urea industry. Specializing in the Chemical Process Industry, Asif has gained hands-on experience with the world’s leading technologies, including KBR, Haldor Topsoe, and Bechtel, across Pakistan’s top three fertilizer industries.

Recognised for his dedication, innovative problem-solving, and a relentless drive for excellence, Mr. Asif excels in a wide range of areas, including HSE, Process Engineering, Commissioning, and the management of complex chemical plant operations, Mr. Asif has continuously demonstrated the ability to deliver outstanding results and lead transformative initiatives.

Ignacio Fernández

CTO (Chief Technical Officer)
FertigHy

With 18 years of project management and engineering experience in large industrial and infrastructure projects in the fertilizers, energy and oil & gas sectors, Ignacio holds the position of CTO at FertigHy since 2023.His experience includes positions of corporate responsibility in project management where he was responsible for managing the execution and objectives achievement of turnkey projects in countries such as Morocco, Uzbekistan, Saudi Arabia or Spain.Ignacio brings to FertigHy strong knowledge and experience which combines conventional energy and petrochemical industry projects with energy transition projects related to hydrogen production or advanced biofuels.

Alex Scheerder

Principal Engineer
Stamicarbon

Alex Scheerder studied Applied Physics and graduated in 1985 at the Technical University of Eindhoven.He started in 1986 as a Research Associate at the NDT (Non destructive Testing) Department of DSM Research in the Netherlands, involved in research and development of NDT- inspection techniques for (petro)-chemical installations (static equipment as well as storage tanks) at the DSM site which includes amongst others several fertilizers plants such as ammonia, urea, nitric acid, sulfuric acid.From 1992 Alex headed the NDT Department of DSM Engineering-Stamicarbon, responsible for ND-inspections of all chemical process installations within the DSM Company and also for Stamicarbon Clients worldwide (Urea plants),In 2001 he joined Stamicarbon as a Mechanical Lead Engineer within the Services Department and later the Urea Technology Department, responsible for all mechanical aspects of the Stamicarbon Urea process. As from 2007 Alex heads the Urea Mechanical Group of the Urea Technology Department of Stamicarbon. The Mechanical Urea group delivers services with respect to design and engineering of urea equipment (PDP packages), in-service corrosion inspections and QA/QC during manufacturing of critical HP equipment. As from 2018 he holds the position of Principal Engineer within Stamicarbon

Usman Abdulrasaq

Process Engineer
Stamicarbon

Usman Abdulrasaq holds an engineering doctorate in Process and Product Design from Eindhoven University of Technology in The Netherlands and a Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from Middle East Technical University in Ankara, Turkey. Currently, he applies his extensive knowledge as a Process Engineer at Stamicarbon, specializing in urea melt technologies. Usman has significant experience in designing ultra-low energy processes and CO2 stripping technologies. His professional interests lie in sustainable processes, enhancing the energy efficiency of urea plants and contributing to the reduction of the carbon footprint in the urea and fertilizer industries.

Michael Reinke

Senior Process Design Engineer
Linde GmbH

Michael Reinke studied process and energy engineering at the Technical University Berlin and received a his PHD in combustion engineering from ETH Zurich. Since 2005 he is working in the Process Design Department for Hydrogen and Syngas Plants of Linde Engineering. His tasks cover the full range of syngas generation technologies for hydrogen, CO and ammonia plants. He was lately involved in the development of the ammonia cracking technology for Linde.

Heinrich Ormann

Director Key Account CIS
SCHMIDTSCHE SCHACK | ARVOS GmbH

Heinrich Ormann holds a MA in Chemical Engineering from Technical University of Clausthal-Zellerfeld, Germany, finalized in June 1987. In 1987, he started his career in Schmidt'sche Heissdampf GmbH firstly as Project and Sales Engineer involved in design and sales of Heat Recovery Systems for Ethylene, Steam Reforming and Metallurgical plants and afterwards as Head of Project and Sales Department. In 2014 he was appointed Key Account Director CIS of ARVOS GmbH (former Schmidt'sche Heissdampf GmbH) responsible for projects mainly on the territory of CIS countries.

Jacob Grose

CEO
Copernic Catalysts

Jacob Grose, Ph.D. is the CEO/Co-founder of Copernic Catalysts, a Boston-based startup leveraging computational materials design and high-throughput experiment to develop transformational drop-in catalysts for sustainable ammonia and e-fuel production. Prior to founding Copernic, Jacob was an Investment Manager for BASF Venture Capital, where he headed the Boston office, sourcing and managing investments related to current and future businesses of BASF. He has worked at the intersection of chemistry and entrepreneurship for more than 15 years, interacting with multiple startups in a variety of roles at BASF and Lux Research. Jacob received his Ph.D. in physics from Cornell University.

Oliver Henkes

Senior Technical Service Manager
Heraeus Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG

Oliver Henkes completed his studies as a degreed process engineer at Frankfurt University of Applied Science. Since 1999 he works in the precious metal business. During the past two decades, Oliver has been responsible for project management for precious metals compounds, he has headed a refinery team, worked as an Application Engineer in the production of semi-finished silver products as well as a Technical Sales Engineer of silver catalyst for the production of formaldehyde. Oliver has joined Heraeus in 2011. Today, Oliver holds a Senior Technical Service Manager position in the Gauze Catalysts & Services team at Heraeus in Hanau, Germany. 

Lisa Connock

Technical Editor Nitrogen+Syngas Magazine
CRU

Mark Brouwer

Director
UreaKnowHow.com

Mark graduated in 1989 at the Technical University of Eindhoven at the faculty of Chemical Engineering. Mark further graduated the postgraduate continuing professional education Safety for Engineers in The Netherlands. After military service he joined DSM where he worked first seven years as a Process Engineer in an ethylene plant during which he was involved in several turnarounds and revamp projects. In 1996 he joined Stamicarbon as Licensing Manager Urea Revamps. Later he became Manager Stamicarbon Services responsible for all Stamicarbon’s activities in existing urea plants, such as After Sales, Plant Inspections, Debottlenecking Projects, Hardware supply projects etc. In these nearly fifteen years he did visit about one hundred urea plants worldwide and was involved in numerous revamp, relocation, debottlenecking and grass root projects. Since January 1, 2009, Mark Brouwer left Stamicarbon and started up UreaKnowHow.com. UreaKnowHow.com’s mission is to support, facilitate and promote the exchange of technical information in the nitrogen fertilizer industry with the target to improve the Safety and Performance of all nitrogen fertilizer plants worldwide.

Charlie Stephen

Senior Analyst, Fertiliser Costs and Emissions
CRU

Charlie joined CRU’s London office in July 2023 as a Senior Analyst to lead the Fertilizer Cost & Emissions Team. Charlie is a Chartered Chemical Engineer with a decade of experience working in engineering and operations functions within manufacturing plants in the Australian fertilizer industry.

Klemens Wawrzinek

Project Manager BD & Sales
Linde

Dr.-Ing. (PhD) at Institute of Fluid Mechanics, Friedrich-Alexander-University .Erlangen-Nuremberg after graduating as Dipl.-Ing. (MSc) Process Engineering at TU Berlin He now is more than 18 years with Linde, his actual position is Project Manager Business Development & Sales for Hydrogen & Syngas. Prior to this role his tasks as Lead Process Engineer for Hydrogen & Syngas spanned from project development & optimization over project execution to commissioning, start-up, and performance testing including polygeneration plants. Before joining Linde he worked with Enginion AG as R&D Engineer & Team Lead Thermodynamics.

Muhammad Idrees

Ultron FZE

Muhammad Idrees is currently Executive Vice President, Engineering and Business Development, of Ultron FZE. Ultron FZE is engaged in private equity investments in fertilizer and petrochemical plants, as well as operating as a trade house for commodities, including nitrogenous and phosphatic fertilizers and petrochemicals. 

Previously he was working as the Chief Commercial Officer at Engro Polymer & chemicals Limited. Prior to this he was leading the Business Development department at Engro Energy Limited where he was responsible for scoping and developing new business opportunities for the energy vertical ranging from investments in renewables to cultivating opportunities in allied industries.

Idrees joined the Engro group in 2003 in the fertilizers business where he served in multiple roles gaining rich experience in project management, business development, human resources, and engineering amongst other departments. He has also worked as General Manager Construction projects at the mega-scale open-pit mining project of Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) where he was responsible for providing cost and governance oversight for the USD 845 million mine project.

During his tenure at SECMC, Idrees was also instrumental in developing various ancillary projects that were critical to the success of the Thar coal project such as the construction of the water resource management plan; construction of the resettlement village at New Senhri Dars in Thar (Sindh); development of the school and hospital network in Thar and other such key development initiatives.

Idrees also serves on the Steering Committee of the United Kingdom’s most prestigious conference – Nitrogen & Syngas of CRU and the Industry Advisory Board at Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS). He is also a published author in 11 international publications. In his free time, he likes to remain physically active and is a fitness enthusiast who likes to run and cycle.

Florian Knaus

Manager Applied Technology
Umicore AG & Co. KG

Florian Knaus studied Chemistry at the Technical University of Darmstadt and completed his PhD degree in January 2022 with a focus in Technical Chemistry. In the beginning of 2021, he started his position as Applied Technology Manager at Umicore. Since then, he has been responsible for design and all technical questions regarding Umicore's ammonia oxidation catalysts. Additionally, he is in charge for the product development.

Manuel Prohaska

CEO
MPC2 e.U.

Manuel Prohaska holds a master's degree in Materials Science and a PhD in Corrosion Science from University of Leoben (Austria) and has joined the urea industry in 2011, when he started to work at BHDT. After different roles in sales and product development, Manuel became Managing Director in 2018. 1.5 years later he left BHDT and joined Schoeller ­Bleckmann Nitec (SBN). At SBN, he had a double role as Sales & Commercial Managing Director. In June 2022, Manuel founded his own company MPC² ; MPC² is specialized in conventional and advanced corrosion-testing methods and various, specific business consultancy services. 

Olivia Chung

Senior Engineer
Quest Integrity

Olivia Chung is a Senior Engineer with Quest Integrity's Advanced Engineering group based in Wellington, New Zealand. Her experience includes metallurgical field support, metallurgical condition assessments, failure analysis, materials testing and general fitness-for-service support for static pressure equipment, pressure piping and rotating equipment. Olivia has a BE(Hons) degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Canterbury and is a Chartered Engineer and Chartered Member of Engineering New Zealand. 

Marc Wieschalla

Head of Process Group Urea
thyssenkrupp Uhde GmbH

Marc started his career at Uhde in the process engineering group for urea in 2012. He wasinvolved in several proposal works, process plant commissionings and has worked as a leadengineer for the process engineering of urea plants. Besides he contributed to furtherdevelopment of urea plants. Since September 2020 Marc is heading the process group for ureawithin Uhde. Besides urea, Marc also has experienced with other fertilizer and crystallisationproducts from his job start at GEA Messo PT which builds crystallization plants.Marc holds a bachelor degree in mechanical engineering and a master degree of ProcessEngineering from the University of Applied Science Krefeld, Germany.

Ardyan Kusuma Jaya

Business & Project Development Manager
PT Kaltim Parna Industri

Ardyan Kusuma Jaya has 15 years experience in Petrochemical Industry especially in Ammonia Plant. He graduated in Chemical Engineering and Magister Management and is now working as Business & Project Development Manager at PT. Kaltim Parna Industry (KPI), an Ammonia plant in Bontang, Indonesia. Currently he has several project developments in green industry such as green hydrogen and green ammonia located in North Kalimantan, Indonesia.

Matti Leppälä

Secretary General, CEO
PensionsEurope

Matti Leppälä, Secretary General/CEO of PensionsEurope, since 2011.Matti is a current member and has been the chair and vice-Chair in 2013-2018 of the Occupational Pensions Stakeholder Group of EIOPA, a member of the European Commission's High-Level Group of Experts on Pensions 2018-2019 and the chair of the World Pension Alliance 2023 - 2024 and 2018 - 2019.Before joining PensionsEurope Matti worked 11 years for The Finnish Pension Alliance TELA. In the 1990's Matti worked in collective bargaining, labor law and social policy. In 1986 Matti started his professional career at the Ministry of Justice in Finland.

Halima Abu Ali

Analyst, Fertilizer Costs and Emissions
CRU Group

Halima joined CRU Group in October 2022. She holds a Master of Science in Sustainable Energy Futures from Imperial College London, and a Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Chemistry from the American University of Nigeria. Prior to joining CRU as an analyst, Halima explored internships within the oil and gas sector in Nigeria, and subsequently within renewable energy development in the UK. At CRU, Halima is responsible for Costs and Emissions analysis within the Fertilizer team.

Vincent Duponchel

VP Process Safety
Yara Belgium S.A./N.V.

After being graduated in Chemical Engineering from ENSC Clermont FerrandFrance in 2002, Vincent started is carrier at Yara/Kaltenbach and then join Yara Le Havrewhere he took several position. From 2012 he has been appointed Urea Technical ProcessOwner then he moved to process safety in end of 2017 to lead PS in the productionfacilities. He is leading the process safety corporate PS team since 2020 as VP processSafety. He has a master in business from Solvay business school and was awarded in 2024by the Kish Shah award from International Fertilizer Society.

Kenji Kawabata

Group Manager, Technical Group
JGC Corporation

Kenji Kawabata is the Technical Sales Manager at JGC Corporation. He started his carrier as process engineer at JGC. Over the past 17 years' experience as Process Engineer, he has been involved in Feasibility Study, in the fields of Oil and Gas Industry. Based on process engineering background, currently responsible for decarbonization project development as technical sales manager, including Ammonia, CCS, Hydrogen, SAF, Waist Plastics Recycle.

Esben L. Sørensen

VP, Product Management & Strategy
Plug Power

Igor Makarenko

Chief Sales Officer
Solex Thermal Science

As Chief Sales Officer, Igor Makarenko is responsible for the strategic direction of global sales for Solex Thermal Science, a globally recognized leader in the heating and cooling of granular solids. Igor has extensive end-to-end experience developing turnkey cooling solutions in various fertilizer applications, with the past decade specializing in applications around the world that range from urea granules to potash.

Shufen Wen

Product & Market Analysis Manager
Stamicarbon

Shufen Wen holds a Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from University of Calabria in Italy and Engineering Doctorate in Process and Product Design from Eindhoven University of Technology in The Netherlands. She joined Stamicarbon in 2022 as Product & Market Analysis Manager and is currently involved in Incremental Innovation and Product Portfolio Management.

Oscar Öhlin

Senior R&D Engineer
Alleima

Oscar Öhlin is a senior R&D engineer at the Tube department of Alleima. Oscar has studied material science at Luleå University of Technology in the north of Sweden. Oscar is working with alloy and product development of CRA alloys and with corrosion related issues.

Johannes Distler

Senior Sales Manager
thyssenkrupp Uhde GmbH

After working several years in the chemical industry for an OEM, Mr. Distler joined Uhde revamp department in 2016. Since then, he has led several revamp projects especially for existing ammonia plants in terms of capacitiy increase or energy efficiency improvement. For approximately six years, Mr. Distler is Product Manager for Green Revamps of fertilizer plants and assists in the development of customized solutions in order to convert the plants into sustainable productions.Mr. Distler holds a diploma degree in mechanical engineering from the Nuremberg Institute of Technology, Germany.

Veronica Rivas

Process Engineer
Stamicarbon

Veronica Rivas studied Chemical Engineering in Spain, at the University of Oviedo, she made her final essay in the production of LDPE. After that and looking for experiences abroad, she moved to the Netherlands in 2010 and started working researching on different applications for supercritical CO2 in the food, pharmaceutical and garment industry. She started working at Stamicarbon in 2015, since then, she has been a process engineer on the Launch team. She had the opportunity to participate in many different projects, and encounter several challenges as designing the biggest and the smallest plants for Stamicarbon.

Simon Weiland

Product Manager
Optimized Gas Treating, Inc.

Simon Weiland joined Optimized Gas Treating, Inc. in 2014 as a Software Development Engineer. Before joining, he completed three internships with OGT. He works on the implementation of new software features and is OGT’s subject matter expert on the recently developed Sulphur Plant kinetics-based simulator.  Simon is currently Product Manager.  He holds a BS is chemical engineering from the University of Oklahoma.

Anny Carolina Santodomingo Rojas

Technical Advisor- Nitric Acid Climate Action Group (NACAG)
Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH

Anny Santodomingo is a chemical engineer with a specialization in managerial management anda Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering. She has been actively involved in the ammonia andfertilizer value chain, where she has been responsible for key technical processes and contributedto the process safety area. Since 2020, she has been part of GIZ as a Technical Advisor for theNACAG project, advising industries on abatement technologies and monitoring systems, as wellas supporting governments in developing political mechanisms to ensure sustainability in emissionreduction and MRV, all aimed at achieving the effective reduction of N₂O emissions.

Bernd Haveresch

Chief Technical Advisor, Business Development, Clean Ammonia & Hydrogen
KBR, Inc.

Bernd Haveresch is a Chief Technical Advisor at KBR Sustainable Technology Solutions. He is responsible for global business development in the Clean Ammonia & Hydrogen unit in KBR’s technology licensing business.   Bernd has gathered 28 years of experience at various management levels in engineering, project management, strategy, regionalization/localization in Asia, project and business development in rotating equipment, technical gases and process technology industries, having worked for a selection of global tier 1 companies.   He holds a degree in mechanical engineering from Dortmund University of Applied Sciences and Arts [Dipl.-Ing. (FH)] and is a certified Senior Project Manager and SixSigma Green Belt.  

Dr Katja Yafimava, DPhil Geography, MPhil REES Oxon

Senior Research Fellow
The Oxford Institute for Energy Studies

Dr. Katja Yafimava is a Senior Research Fellow at the OIES and an expert at the UNECE Group of Experts on Gas. Her main research area is EU regulation (pipeline gas, LNG, decarbonisation) as reflected in many OIES publications, including ‘From natural gas to hydrogen: what are the rules for European gas network decarbonisation and do they ensure flexibility and security of supply?’, ‘EU solidarity at a time of gas crisis: even with a will a way still looks difficult’, ‘The TEN-E Regulation: allowing a role for decarbonised gas’, ‘Finding a Home for Global LNG in Europe: understanding the complexity of access rules for EU import terminals’.

Dominique Flahaut

Group Technical Director
PARALLOY Group

Dr Dominique Flahaut is a seasoned expert with 33 years of experience in the reformer tube metallurgy and production. After completing her PhD in Manoir, she started her career in Paralloy as Technical Manager, spent brief time at Schmidt + Clemens as a R&D consultant to come back as Technical Director of Paralloy during the last 15 years and she is now Technical Director of Paralloy Group.

Peter-Paul Ekelschot

Managing Director, Global Lead Low Carbon Solutions
ING Bank N.V.

Peter-Paul is responsible for the ING’s global Energy Project Advisory business with teams in London, New York, Houston and Singapore. He also spearheads the rollout of ING‘s energy transition strategy for the Energy sector focused on New Energy Technologies such as CCUS, Hydrogen/Ammonia and Waste to Hydrocarbons. Prior to his current position, he was responsible for Upstream Oil & Gas financing in the North Sea and worked closely together with clients on CCUS their strategies. Peter-Paul has a further background in large international (energy) restructurings and M&A advisory at both ING and KPMG.

Christian Schulz

New Business Development & Sustainability Manager | Global Chemical Catalysts & Adsorbents
BASF

Christian Schulz is a highly skilled chemist and manager with extensive experience in sustainable technology development and market expansion. As the New Business Development & Sustainability Manager at BASF SE, he focuses on innovative catalyst solutions for low-carbon processes, driving strategic sustainability initiatives. Christian holds a Dipl.-Chem. from Technische Universität Kaiserslautern, where he graduated, and earned his PhD at the BasCat - UniCat BASF JointLab. His career includes pivotal roles in R&D project management and customer-oriented solutions in heterogeneous catalysis, including CO₂ utilization, contributing to his field's advancement.

Swetlana Romanenko

Senior Sales & Business Development Manager
Umicore AG & Co. KG

As an economist with extensive experience Swetlana has been working in sales and business development more than 25 years. She focuses primarily on new markets development and establishing key partnerships, as well as contributing to the overall business development efforts. Besides her main responsibilities, she is passionate about technology development and enjoys every opportunity to get involved with the company's valued partners on site, directly at the plant.

Sayujya Shah

Process Engineer
Stamicarbon

Sayujya Shah holds an MSc in Chemical Engineering with honors from the Technical University of Delft (2020). In 2022, he earned his EngD (Engineering Doctorate) with Cum Laude, in Process and Product Design from the Technical University of Eindhoven. During his doctoral studies, he collaborated with TNO (Dutch Organization for Applied Scientific Research), focusing on biomass treatment and gasification technologies. Since 2023, Sayujya has been employed as a Process Engineer at Stamicarbon, where he is a member of the Nitric Acid team. In this role, he contributes to the development of innovative nitric acid technologies.

Johannes Poth

Senior Technologist
IGS

Johannes Poth is a Senior Technologist in ceramic science and engineering. He earned an engineering degree in ceramics from the University of Applied Science in Koblenz Germany. Johannes then joint Fosbel Inc. as a Quality and Product Manager, specializing in Cetek, thin film high emissivity ceramic coatings and Hot-tek Services. Over the year he has been responsible for the development, application, and market introduction around the globe. Johannes joined Integrated Global Services (IGS) in 2017, when the Cetek brand was acquired by IGS and continues to support thermal efficiency optimization projects.

Shawala Azhar

Process Engineer
Fauji Fertilizer Company Limited

Shawala Azhar is a skilled Process Engineer at Fauji Fertilizer Company (FFC). She holds a degree in Chemical Engineering from UET Lahore and has accumulated 12 years of experience in engineering studies. Her expertise includes plant modifications, process evaluations, plant monitoring, troubleshooting, optimization, and catalysts replacement during turnrounds. Shawala has played a key role in enhancing energy efficiency through her in-depth technical knowledge and problem-solving abilities. Her proficiency in simulation allows her to predict the behavior of plant systems under different operating conditions, aiding in the design of efficient modifications and decision making during optimization projects.

Markus Dietzen

Process Engineer
Linde GmbH

Dr.-Ing. Markus Dietzen is a  Process Engineer Conceptual Design - System Engineering & Start UP at The Linde Group. Markus graduated with two prominent degrees: Dipl.-Ing. (M.Sc.) in Chemical Plant Engineering/ Process Engineering,  and Dr.-Ing. (PhD) in Fluid Mechanics (Aerodynamics/ Process-Instrumentation) at the Technical University of Kaiserslauten.

He joined Linde in 2008 and holds 5 Patents – granted or pending (Ultrasonic Tomography – Device & Method, N2–Recycle Process for Polyolefin Purification Units, Technology & Technical solutions within the context of PEM Electrolysis ).

Adam Samir Kadhim

Product Line Director
Topsoe A/S

Adam Kadhim holds an MSc in Chemical and Biochemical Engineering from the Technical University of Denmark and has later in his career supplemented it with a GDBA in International Business from Copenhagen Business School. His background includes expertise in catalyst and process engineering, with a focus on hydrogen, syngas, ammonia, methanol, and gas-to-liquids. Adam’s professional experience spans managerial roles in catalyst product management, technology licensing sales, and business development for large Power-to-X projects. Currently, as Product Line Director at Topsoe, he has global responsibility for the Chemicals and Low Carbon Technologies.

Matthias Müller

Research Scientist - Catalysis for Monomers, Intermediates and Fine Chemicals
BASF SE

Matthias Müller studied chemistry in Marburg, Germany and received his PhD in the field of inorganic beryllium chemistry in Marburg as well. After a post-doc at the hte GmbH in the field of heterogeneous catalysis, he has been working as a research scientist at BASF since 2022. Here he supports the R&D activities in the field of exhaust gas catalysis, in particular the reduction of N2O emissions in stationary applications.

Murad Ismayilov

Process Engineer
Stamicarbon

Murad lsmayilov is a Process Engineer at Stamicarbon B. V., specializing in the field of urea fertilizer production. With a robust background in both urea melt and granulation plants, Murad has extensive experience in plant operations and commissioning, playing an active role in optimizing and launching advanced production facilities. His expertise spans both technical and practical aspects of urea production processes, with a focus on innovation in plant efficiency and emissions control. At the Nitrogen+Syngas 2025 Expoconference, Murad will be presenting "Experiences with MicroMist™ and Jet Venturi scrubbing systems" sharing insights from experience with cutting-edge scrubbing technology in emissions management.

Mohammed Grerifa

Technical Marketing Manager
BASF

Mohammed Grerifa, currently a Technical Marketing Manager for Gas Treatment at BASF since 2016, possesses an impressive background in process engineering. Mohammed's academic journey began at the University of Science and Technology of Bab Ezzouar, Algeria, where he established a strong foundation in process engineering. Upon graduation, Mohammed embarked on his career as a project engineer, bringing his expertise to an ammonia revamp project. This role allowed him to expand his technical knowledge while honing project management skills, effectively balancing project requirements with timelines and budgets. Subsequently, Mohammed joined Fertial Spa as Principal Process Engineer. Here he mastered process optimization, troubleshooting, and leadership skills, further enhancing his engineering expertise. In his current role at BASF, Mohammed skilfully combines his technical prowess with a knack for marketing. He effectively communicates the advantages of gas treatment solutions to clients, showcasing his unique blend of engineering knowledge and marketing acumen. Mohammed's career path demonstrates his commitment to continuous learning, growth, and excellence in the field of process engineering. His diverse skill set, and experience make him an invaluable asset to the BASF team.

Kei Fukuzawa

Program Leader
Toyo Engineering corporation

Kei Fukuzawa is a program leader of several decarbonization technologies since joining Toyo Engineering in 2023. Her main tasks involve pre-sales activities, feasibility studies using MethaMaster™ for the optimum design of our proprietary g-Methanol™ process and proof of concept work of other R&D projects. She started her career in the product development division of coatings technology at BASF Japan where she worked for 5 years after earning her master’s degree in chemical engineering in 2018.

Kevin Rouwenhorst

Industrial Fellow
University of Twente

Kevin Rouwenhorst holds a MSc on Chemical & Process Engineering at the University of Twente. Furthermore, he holds a PhD on plasma-catalytic ammonia synthesis from the University of Twente. He held positions at a renewable energy investor and at an ammonia engineering firm. Currently, he works at Ammonia Energy Association as Technology Manager, and he is an industrial fellow at the University of Twente. He is the lead author of the report Innovation Outlook: Renewable Ammonia of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the Ammonia Energy Association (AEA). He is also the author of the upcoming book Low-Emission Ammonia Production and Utilization.

Maksym Selianynov

Principal Process Engineer at Fertilizer Academy, former Technical Manager at Odessa Port Plant
Fertilizer Academy

Mr. Maksym Selianynov, a Ukrainian chemical engineer, has over 20 years of extensive expertise primarily in urea production, progressing from operator to technical manager at Odessa Port Plant since 2002, covering all production units for both ammonia and urea operations. His dual Master’s degrees in Chemical Technology and Industrial Management from Odessa National Polytechnic University (2003) have enabled him to optimize large-scale urea processes, revamp production systems, and implement environmentally responsible practices. Mr. Selianynov also brings practical experience in training personnel on real production processes, significantly enhancing workforce readiness through his work with Fertilizer.Academy and UreaKnowHow.com.

Dan Cojocaru

Director
Fertilizer Academy

Dan brings over 20 years of comprehensive experience in operations, engineering, and consultancy within ammonia and LNG projects. Beginning his career as a field operator at an ammonia plant, he progressed through various roles, gaining unique exposure to the perspectives of Operator, Licensor, and EPC stakeholders. Dan’s expertise spans all project phases, from Concept and Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) through to Detailed Design, Commissioning, and Operations, further enriched by his specialized knowledge in Process Safety. This extensive background led Dan to establish the Fertilizer Academy, an online training platform dedicated to the fertilizer industry. Fertilizer Academy’s mission is to share industry knowledge, mitigate operational errors, and prevent process incidents.

Marian Flores Granobles, PhD

Technical Advisor
Arcelor Mittal

Dr. Marian Flores completed her PhD in Chemical Engineering at Ghent University, with focus onprocess and reactor modelling of CO2 utilization processes. During her PhD, she evaluated theCO2 reduction potential of the implementation of CCU processes for the steel and petrochemicalindustries. Since 2022, Marian is a technical advisor for the ArcelorMittal group on topics relatedto syngas generation, CO2 capture, conversion and transport.

Nina Fahy

Executive Director, Senior Energy Transition Specialist
Rabobank

Nina Fahy is a Senior Energy Transition Specialist within the RaboResearch Energy Transition team, where she focuses on clean fuels and US policy. Nina has a 15-year track record leading and managing research and analytics teams focusing on North American energy markets. Her focus has primarily been on natural gas and transition fuels. Prior to joining Rabobank, she held senior roles at PIRA Energy Group, S&P Global Platts, Energy Aspects and Baringa’s energy deal and strategic advisory practice. Nina holds a Master of Science from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Arts from Tufts University, where she graduated summa cum laude.

Chris Lawson

Head of Fertilizers
CRU

Chris is Head of Fertilizers, leading a global team of 30 analysts. He oversees the full portfolio of fertilizer pricing, market outlook and cost services and works closely with the other leaders of the CRU analysis business unit.Prior to this Chris was Head of Phosphates analysis and the fertilizer demand analyst/agricultural economist, having joined CRU in 2014.He has a background in agriculture and holds a BSc in Agricultural Science from the University of Adelaide.

Tommy Allan Jensen

Senior Business Manager, Digital Service Transformation
Topsoe A/S

Tommy has more than 25 years of sales and business development experience within IT software and IT services companies. He has been in charge of numerous sales and development teams, applying his skills within Sales and Training, defending and growing subscription business, change management, business development, and customer engagement. At Topsoe, his role is to transform customer training from physical events to a stand-alone, customer-value-driven business based on digital learning, "Topsoe Academy On-Demand".

Richard Holder

General Manager
Nutrien

Richard J. Holder, with over 24 years in chemical manufacturing, is a General Manager at Nutrien's Geismar, Louisiana facility, where he oversees operations across multiple plants, including ammonia and urea production, managing 400 employees. Known for his expertise in safety and efficiency, Richard has achieved zero lost time incidents over three years and boosted plant efficiency by 15% through Lean principles. He holds a BSc in Chemical and Process Engineering, an MSc in Finance, and an MBA in Innovation and Entrepreneurship. A Six Sigma Green Belt, he has executed high-impact capital projects like the Geismar ammonia restart and several debottlenecking projects of Ammonia, Urea and Nitric Acid plants.

Joey Dobree

Head of Innovation Portfolio Management
NextChem S.p.A.

Mr. Dobrée has a Bachelor degree in Chemical Engineering at the Hanze University and a Master degree in Industrial Engineering and Management at the University of Groningen, the Netherlands. Once graduated Mr. Dobrée started working as process engineer for Stamicarbon in 2007. After working in the role as Licensing Manager and Product Portfolio Manager, Mr. Dobrée moved to sister company NextChem Tech S.p.A., as Head of Portfolio Management. Within this position responsible for product management, incremental innovation and strategic marketing of all sustainable technologies, considering the technology clusters: Circular Carbon & Gas Treatment Solutions, Hydrogen, Fuels & Chemicals and Polymers. In addition, Mr. Dobrée holds the position of Head of Innovation Portfolio Management at NextChem S.p.A., responsible for management of strategic and incremental innovation portfolio of the NextChem group.

Ahmed Hanafi Mahmoud

Sr.Process Engineer
Helwan Fertilizers Company

He graduated in 2015 from Cairo University’s Faculty of Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering. In 2018, he began his career at Helwan Fertilizer Company as an operations engineer in the urea plant. In 2022, he was selected to join the process department, where, after two years of dedicated effort, he successfully used Aspen Plus to build a comprehensive model of the urea plant (synthesis and granulation) based on the PFD. This simulation resolved multiple issues within the plant, leading to significant savings in water and energy consumption. The model is currently being developed for full plant optimization, promising further resource savings and enhanced equipment efficiency.

Rolf Postma

Process Engineer
Stamicarbon

Dr.ir. Rolf Postma has a Ph.D. in industrial catalysis from the University of Twente, where he also concluded his master's in process engineering. After graduation, he started working as a process engineer for Stamicarbon in 2021. Within this position, he focuses on the development and continuous improvement of Stami Green Ammonia technology, with a special focus on converter design.

Winandyo Mangkoto

Process Engineer
PT Pupuk Sriwidjaja Palembang

Winandyo Mangkoto is a graduate of Diponegoro University with a degree in Chemical Engineering. He has dedicated his professional journey to PT Pupuk Sriwidjaja Palembang since 2014. Initially serving as an Operations Engineer for two years, Winandyo currently works as a Process Engineer. In the dynamic world of process engineering, merging academic skill with hands-on experience, He is driven to continually enhance operations, ensuring excellence and compliance in every facet of his work. Alfredo’s Energy Auditor and Hazops Leader certifications underscore his commitment to energy efficiency and process safety.

Muhammad Imran Idris

Team Lead Process Engineering
OQ Salalah Cluster

Muhammad Imran Idris is currently the Team Lead, Process Engineering at OQ Basic Industries, Salalah, Oman. His tenure extends from October 2023 to date. There he leads Process Engineers team to optimize plant operations by explore opportunities to improve plant efficiency and decarbonize OQBi to transform into a carbon Neutral Organization by 2050. He had also served in Engro Fertilizers Limited in Pakistan as Process Manager. He carries with himself experience of more than 19 years, armed with recognized expertise in process optimization, plant commissioning, and engineering with innovation across the chemical and petrochemical industries.

Muayad Qatan

Lead Process Engineer
OQBI

Muayad Abdullah Ahmed Qatan was born on September 4, 1990, in Oman, Salalah. He completed his bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering in 2014 at the Higher College of Technology. Muayad began his career in 2012 as a field operator at a methanol plant. By 2015, he had advanced to the role of panel operator. In 2017, he became a process engineer for an ammonia project, contributing significantly during the engineering, construction, and commissioning phases. In 2019, he was assigned for a new role as Senior Process Engineer for the same project. As of 2024, Muayad serves as the lead process engineer for an LPG plant.

Bruno Teixeira

Process Engineer
Stamicarbon

Bruno Teixeira has a Master's degree in Chemical Engineering at the University of Porto, Portugal, followed by an Engineering Doctorate in Process and Product Design at the Technical University of Eindhoven, the Netherlands. After some experience gained in the petrochemical and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) sectors, he has been working for 3 years in Stamicarbon in urea finishing technologies as a Process Engineer.

Rafael Andrade

Engineering Manager
ENGEMASA Engenharia e Materiais Ltda

Dr. Rafael Andrade is a Manager with over 15 years of experience in the metal industry. He holds a Ph.D. in Material Science and Engineering and specializes in the production, development, and characterization of stainless steel and special alloys for high-temperature applications. Dr. Andrade has published papers in leading international journals and presented his research at international conferences. He is also a member of the Maintenance and Reliability Subcommittee of the Ethylene Producers Committee.

Pietro Moreo

Technology Manager, Syngas Process Dept.
Casale SA

Pietro Moreo has more than 26 years of experience in engineering development.  From 1998 to 2007 he worked with Snamprogetti S.P.A., initially as Process Engineer, and successively as Process Leader.  He joined Casale as Process Group Leader in 2007 and he was appointed Process Manager in 2012 with the task of taking care mainly of Methanol technology.   Since 2018 Mr. Moreo has the role of Methanol Technology Manager and, since 2021, has also the role of Blue Hydrogen Technology Manager.  Development, promotion, and supervision of the application of technologies and products of competence.  Basic and Detailed Engineering for revamping of Ammonia – Methanol Plants; Basic and Detailed Engineering for New Ammonia – Methanol - Blue Hydrogen Plants; Ammonia and Methanol Converter Process Design; Pre-reformer and Water Gas Shift Reactors Process Design; Autothermal Reformer and Partial Oxidation Reactors Process Design; Preparation of technical offer and international bids; Plant start-up and test run.

Andrea Zambianco

Low Carbon Solutions Product Development Manager
Saipem S.p.A.

Andrea Zambianco is a Chemical Engineer with 28 years of experience in Fertilizer and Syngas chain Technologies, with increasing responsibilities in the whole phases of the projects from design till start-up and project completion. He is Technical Manager and Project Manager of large-scale Fertilizer Projects and Project Manager for development of innovative solutions in the Carbon Capture and Energy Transition, currently responsible for the development of Low Carbon Solutions Products.

Michael Lutz

Senior Process Engineer Innovation
Air Liquide Global E&C Solutions Germany GmbH

Dr. Michael Lutz is a hydrogen enthusiast to the core. He has a chemical engineering backgroundwith extensive experience in hydrogen systems across research and industry. He has developed anadvanced metal hydride hydrogen storage technology at the German Aerospace Center for whichhe received his Ph.D. He is currently working on the development and commercialization of theammonia cracking technology at Air Liquide Engineering & Construction. In addition to his interestin supplying Europe and the world with low carbon hydrogen, Michael Lutz combines technicalexpertise with a strong commitment to the clean energy transition.

Khalid Farooq Khattak

Head of Machinery Maintenance
Fauji Fertilizer Company Limited

Mr. Khalid Farooq Khattak has over 2 decades of experience at Fauji Fertilizer Company Limited. He has spearheaded maintenance operations for diverse equipment, optimizing performance and efficiency. A proficient in rotary equipment maintenance, vibration diagnostics, he has implemented strategies to significantly reduce downtime and costs. Mr. Khalid has a penchant for new technologies and a keen eye for detail. The qualities have helped him think out of box and come up with new techniques to counter problems. He is also an active member on various maintenance forum, frequently helping others reach innovative solutions.

Aviv Bar Tal

Global Vice President Commercial Nitrogen
OCI Global

Aviv Bar Tal is Global VP Commercial Nitrogen at OCI Global, a leading global producer and distributor of nitrogen and hydrogen based- products providing low carbon fertilizers, fuels and feedstock. OCI Global is the third largest global nitrogen fertilizer producer with a revenue of $9.7bn and more than 4,000 employees.Aviv leads OCI’s Nitrogen business and is responsible for commercial strategy, sales, sourcing, marketing, logistics, supply chain, business development and trading operations. This includes selling around 13m tons of fertilizer and ammonia products from seven production sites across four continents.Since joining OCI in 2021, Aviv has led the commercial transformation of ammonia from fertilizer feedstock to a low CO2 energy source and hydrogen carrier.Prior to OCI, Aviv spent 22 years at ICL Group, starting his career in Israel and held leadership roles across the Netherlands, China and Brazil including in the fertilizer business and as SVP of innovative Agriculture Solutions Europe.Aviv is also a Board member of Fertilizers Europe and N-7 in USA.

Laurent Prost

Head of HyCO Process Solution Development
Air Liquide Global E&C Solutions Germany GmbH

Laurent Prost is convinced of the key role of innovation in reducing greenhouse gas emissions inindustry. He is currently involved in the development and commercialization of a new ammoniacracking technology within Air Liquide Engineering & Construction.He worked over 20 years in R&D and Engineering in Europe and Japan where he developedinnovative solutions for the production, transportation and distribution of low-carbon hydrogen.Laurent holds a Master’s degree in Applied Mathematics and an MSc in Computer Science fromNational Polytechnic Institute of Grenoble, France. He followed an Executive Program on Innovationand Business Models at HEC, France.

Diego Lazzari

Head Of Sales
Belleli Energy CPE

Born in Cremona in 1972, he graduated in Industrial Engineering, with a specialization in Energy. He worked for companies specialized in the manufacturing of mechanical components and machinery with different technical and management roles and then moved into a commercial role in Maire Tecnimont, one of the most important EPC Contractors before starting to work for Belleli Energy, since 2012 as Proposal Manager and then joined the BELLELI Energy CPE in   2016 as Area Sales Manager. He currently holds the role of Head of Sales of the Mantua office.

Tareque Iftekhar

Sr. Mechanical Inspection Engineer
Stamicarbon

Tareque Iftekhar is a seasoned inspection engineer in the Ammonia-Urea industry, with over 21 years of experience. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from BUET and an MBA from USTC. Certified as an API-510 and 570 inspector, as well as a CSWIP welding inspector, he has extensive hands-on expertise in plant inspection, risk-based inspection, and troubleshooting for the Urea industry. He presented a symposium paper on Urea Reactor gas line modification. Tareque worked at KAFCO, Bangladesh, and QAFCO, Qatar from 2003-2016 before joining Stamicarbon in 2017, where he is now a Senior Mechanical Inspection Engineer involved in Incremental Innovation and Product Development.

Luca Edoardo Vigano'

Urea Technology Leader
Saipem S.p.A.

Luca studied chemical engineering at the Politecnico of Milan. After graduating in 2009 Luca joined Saipem where he started his career as a process engineer for Saipem’s Snamprogetti™ urea technology. He had the opportunity to interact with people of great experience both within Saipem and abroad, acquiring knowledge on the urea process itself and gaining experience in the related mechanical and site aspects of the job. Now Luca is technology leader for the Snamprogetti™ Urea Technology.”

Alessandro Gullà

Sales Manager
A.W.S. Corporation SRL

Alessandro Gullà graduated with Bachelor's degree in Environmental engineering from Politecnico of Milan in 2003. In 2003 Mr Gullà started his career in a small engineering company located in Milan. After this he worked in companies manufacturing wastewater filters and dust filters from 2006 to 2010, before joining to AWS corporation srl. Mr Gullà is currently the Sales & Proposal Manager of wet electrostatic precipitators & mist eliminators in AWS Corporation srl, where he has been working since 2010.

Ken Monstrey

Granulation Technology Manager
Casale SA

Ken Monstrey is Chief Technology Officer, Process Development at Green Granulation Technology, Hong Kong. Before joining Green Granulation Technology in 2011 he was Sales Manager for Van Heyghen Staal and before that he worked for nearly 5 years for NewValmar in Belgium as area Sales Manager. Mr Monstrey has a Bachelor in Law Practice and a Bachelor in marketing from the Businessschool at Hogeshool in Gent. In his current role he is in charge of R&D; supervising the design stage of the Urea Granulation Projects; comissioning licensed. projects; further development of the CRG process.

Giulio Paci

Principal Materials Engineer
Yara International

Giulio Paci is a material engineer and hold a master’s degree in Materials Engineering at University of Perugia in Italy since 2006. He worked 11 years in Saipem as Senior Materials and Corrosion Engineer and he was part of the technical team promoting the Snamprogetti Urea Technology.He is working In Yara, in the Operational Excellence team and part of the Reliability and Turnaround group in the TPO (Technical Process Owner) organization, as Principal Materials Engineer.His responsibilities cover the implementation of the Inspection and Materials framework in supporting the implementation of RBI (Risk Based Inspection) and the integrity vision in all Yara’s production facilities worldwide.

Mohamed Mostafa Shams

Urea maintenance manager
Misr Fertilizers Production Company “MOPCO”

Mohamed Mostafa Shams has been involved with maintenance and maintenance management for 18 years. Earned a bachelor degree in mechanical engineering from Alexandria University, Egypt in 2006  and master of business administration “ MBA” in project management and started maintenance career with Misr fertilizers production company “Mopco” in 2007 as maintenance engineer responsible for construction activities of ammonia urea plant Mopco3.

• 2008-2010 maintenance engineer responsible for maintenance activities in ammonia plan Mopco 3  
• 2010-2016 senior maintenance engineer responsible for maintenance activities in ammonia plan Mopco 3  
• 2016-2019 urea maintenance section head for Mopco1and 2 Started 2020 until now worked as maintenance manager responsible for managing and following up Maintenance activities for Urea plants 1, 2 and 3.

Kirsten Braunsmann

New Business Development & Sustainability | Global Chemical Catalysts & Adsorbents
BASF SE

Dr. Kirsten Braunsmann is a chemist with a PhD in chemistry from the University of Münster, Germany. In 2011, she began her career at BASF in Ludwigshafen, where she specialized in heterogeneous catalysis. Her focus was particularly on the development of zeolite-based catalysts used in various industrial applications. Since 2021, Dr. Kirsten Braunsmann has been working in New Business Development & Sustainability within the BASF Catalyst Division, where she drives innovative approaches to promote sustainable solutions in catalysis.

Damiano Visciotti

Technology Manager
Tecnimont Spa

Holding a M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering, Damiano has previously worked as Process Engineer for Versalis, Casale and Techint E&C, and in 2014 he joined Tecnimont, where he is currently covering the position of Technology Manager. Having more than 20 years of experience in the field of process design, commissioning and operation supervision of petrochemical and fertilizer plants, he has managed the process design activities related to several EPC urea projects, as well as feasibility studies concerning industrial applications in the field of energy optimization and decarbonization of urea plants.

Daniel Blanks

Senior Structural Integrity Engineer and Team Lead
Quest Integrity Group

Daniel Blanks is a Senior Integrity Engineer in the Advanced Engineering group at Quest Integrity, based on the Gold Coast, Australia. He has over twelve years’ experience in carrying out Fitness-for-Service (FFS) assessments across the oil & gas and chemical industries. Daniel’s focus is in utilizing numerical simulations to solve complex integrity problems, particularly those involving cracking in high temperature equipment.

Sayan Dasgupta

Head of Technology Syngas
Air Liquide Global E&C Solutions Germany

Sayan Dasgupta is currently heading the Syngas team inside Syngas and Methanol product line in Air Liquide Global E&C Solutions, stationed in Frankfurt, Germany. Before joining Air Liquide, he was working with Haldor Topsoe for more than 10 years. Sayan has graduated in Chemical Engineering and has profound experience in traditional hydrogen, ammonia and methanol technologies. To address the momentum of current energy transition, Sayan’s current role encompasses oxygen based technologies (Autothermal Reforming, Partial Oxidation coupled with Carbon Capture) for generation of low carbon syngas derivatives i.e. low carbon hydrogen and ammonia. Besides technology navigation, Sayan also has experience of commissioning hydrogen, HyCO and ammonia plants including state of the art technology features like Gas-POx, Autothermal reforming, gas heated reforming and ammonia synthesis in series. With the combination of strong technology know-how and commissioning experience, Sayan, with his team is currently engaged in developing the right technology solutions for the rapid decarbonization of the global assets.

Leonardo Falbo

Senior Technology Process Engineer
NetxChem Tech. SPA

Mr. Falbo is a Chemical Engineer with a decade of global experience in the chemical industry. As a Senior TechnologyProcess Engineer at NextChem Tech., part of the Maire Group, he is passionate about Green Technologies andaddressing Energy Transition challenges. With a robust technical background in catalysis and catalytic processes from hisPh.D. and Postdoc research in academia, his expertise spans multiple technologies, including syngas production,decarbonization of new or existing plants, and carbon dioxide reutilization through hydrogenation to produce chemicals andfuels.

Alexander Higelin

Team Lead New Business Development
BASF SE

After obtaining his PhD in inorganic chemistry, Alexander started his industrial career with a mayor german energy utility working in innovation management. He went on to work as a business development manager for the high throughput experimentation company – hte. For the past three years Alexander has been heading the team for new business development for BASF Process Catalysts in charge of developing new catalysts to support the sustainability transformation in the energy and chemical industries.

Denise Caspar

Business Development Manager, CPI & Energy
DMV GmbH

After 17 years in the world of seamless pipes in the Offshore Pipeline Oil & Gas industry, Denise Caspar took over the role as Business Development Manager, CPI and Energy, at Mannesmann Stainless Tubes. As a Dipl.-Engineer of Material Sciences the material behaviour of hot & cold finished austenitic stainless steels, nickel-base alloys, (Super)Duplex and Bi-Metallic (Double­Wall) seamless tubes are her passion. The identification of specialised solutions for the chemical process industry/ petroleum refinery industry (downstream business) in caustic environments is key for her.

Alfin Ferdiawan

Process Engineer
PT Petrokimia Gresik

Alfin Ferdiawan is a process engineer at PT Petrokimia Gresik, Indonesia’s leading fertilizer company. He has over 7 years of experience in designing, optimizing, and troubleshooting various chemical processes, such as ammonia, urea, and water treatment production. He holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Universitas Diponegoro. He is currently working in a department that focuses on process evaluation and quality control of the ammonia, urea, and water treatment plant processes. He is passionate about applying his skills and knowledge to solve real-world problems and contribute to the development of the fertilizer industry in Indonesia.

Muhammad Faisal Faraz

Senior Process Engineer
OQBi

Highly skilled Senior Process Engineer with 17+ years of experience in the refining and petrochemical industry, specializing in Naphtha hydrotreating, Continuous Catalytic Reforming (CCR), Platforming, CDU, Methanol, and Ammonia processes.Expertise in process optimization, safety, commissioning, and operational excellence. Adept at leading teams and delivering technical solutions in fast-paced environments. Currently employed at OQBi Methanol/Ammonia Plant in Oman, part of OQ Group, an integrated energy company operating in 17 countries worldwide.

Muhammad Umar Riaz

Sr. Applied Catalyst Technology Engineer - MEA
Clariant

Muhammad Umar Riaz is a seasoned syngas expert with over 14 years of experience in plant operations, process optimization, digitalization projects, process safety & catalysts loading, reduction, performance evaluation, troubleshooting. He is working as Sr. ACT Engineer – Syngas & Fuels (MEA) at Clariant, where he leverages his expertise to drive innovation, he previously served as a Sr. Process Engineer - Ammonia at Fatima Fertilizer Company Ltd in Pakistan. Outside of work, Umar enjoys traveling, experiencing different cultures, & connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. He values quality time with family. He is avid player of cricket, badminton & table tennis.

Sushansi Agarwal

Technical Service Lead
Indorama Fertilizers Limited

Sushansi Agarwal is an experienced technical Service Engineer with over 16+ years of experience in process engineering, process optimization, debottlenecking study, process safety, and digitalization projects. She is working as Technical Service Lead at Indorama Eleme Fertilizer and chemicals Limited, Port Harcourt, Nigeria, where she is capitalizing her experience for smooth operation, energy optimization, catalyst performance monitoring, in-house modifications of the ammonia, urea, utility plants at Indorama Eleme Fertilizer and Chemicals complex. Outside of work, Sushansi enjoys traveling, reading and connecting with people.

Kazuki Kamikubo

Process Engineer
Toyo Engineering Corporation

Mr. Kazuki Kamikubo is a process engineer dedicating to Urea Process in Toyo Engineering Corporation. He has also been engaged in several projects as a urea process licensor. His responsibilities include engineering of new licensing projects and EPC projects / commissioning, start-up. He has been working for Toyo Engineering Corporation since he graduated from a master course in chemical engineering from Hiroshima University, Japan. He has bachelor’s degree of chemical engineering.

Christoph Wöber

Application Specialist Pressure
WIKA Alexander Wiegand SE & Co. KG

Christoph Wöber graduated as a mechanical engineer at Technical University Darmstadt, Germany. Since 1993 he works at WIKA, focused on instrumentation for nonstandard applications. He started in sales as proposal engineer. During the past three decades, Christoph has taken over different responsibilities, like product management, key account management and technical consultant. He has headed a sales support team supporting instrumentation companies on their supplies with added value by WIKA diaphragm seals into O&G and CPC projects all over the world. He now works as an Application Specialist supporting the WIKA project business organization in engineered solutions and special products needed to full fill the requirements given by process data and specified in the instrument data sheets.

Abdullah Al Balushi

Asset Integrity Engineer
OQBi

Asset Integrity Engineer with expertise in the methanol industry, specializing in proactive inspection and corrosion control strategies to ensure reliability and integrity of static equipment and piping. Skilled in managing external corrosion control, cathodic protection systems, and adhering to stringent safety and industry standards for highest quality control . Proficient in developing Integrity Operating Windows (IOWs) to monitor damage mechanisms, enhance operational efficiency, and optimize inspection planning for process and off-site systems. Committed to delivering high-quality outcomes while ensuring compliance with industry best practices and safety requirements.

Hassam Khalid

Deputy Manager Operations
Engro Fertilizers Limited

Hassam Khalid is a seasoned Chemical Engineer with over nine years of diverse experience in operations and risk management within ammonia, urea, utilities, and power generation plants. Currently employed at Engro Fertilizers, a leading conglomerate in Pakistan, he combines technical expertise with a strong commitment to safety and operational excellence. Hassam holds an International General Certificate (IGC) in Occupational Health and Safety from NEBOSH. His key responsibilities include implementing and maintaining company safety and environmental policies, ensuring smooth and efficient plant operations, troubleshooting, managing startups and shutdowns, handling emergencies, and commissioning projects. He is dedicated to upholding industry standards while driving continuous improvement.

Mohammad Arslan Qureshi

Senior Process Engineer
Engro Fertilizers

Mohammad Arslan Qureshi is a Senior Process Engineer at Engro Fertilizers Pakistan. He has over 7 years of experience working at 2194 MTPD Ammonia (Topsoe) and 3835 MTPD Urea  (Saipem) plant. He is well versed at plant monitoring, optimization and troubleshooting. He has been involved in various catalyst replacement jobs, debottlenecking studies, process safety & risk management initiatives and digitization projects at both plants.

Nicola Coslett

Chief Executive Officer - Communities
CRU Group

Nicola currently heads CRU’s Community division, which builds lifetime value for customers through sharing valuable information via newsletters and magazines, while simultaneously organising networking events.

Nicola has 30 years of experience in the B2B information sector, working in marketing as well as leading the strategy and growth of flagship events across metals, mining and fertilizers. Her expertise covers a range of formats including conferences, trade shows and managed events where she has worked with leading associations and organisations, developing high level content-led events.

Nicola has been instrumental in several CRU acquisitions over the years including Ryan’s Notes, Steel Market Update, RefComm and BCInsight where she was involved in both the due diligence process as well as integrating teams into the business.

Jahangir Piracha

Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer
Fauji Fertilizer Company Limited

Jahangir Piracha is MD & CEO of FFC, Pakistan’s largest fertilizer manufacturer. With over 3 decades of leadership experience across key sectors, Jahangir is recognized for driving innovation, sustainability & operational excellence. His strategic vision has positioned FFC at the forefront of agricultural productivity and food security, both locally and globally. Before joining FFC, Jahangir served as CEO of Engro Polymer & Chemicals Ltd, Engro Vopak Terminal Ltd, and Engro Powergen Qadirpur Ltd, where he led transformative projects and expanded operational capacities. In addition to his executive roles, Jahangir sits on the Board of Directors of International Fertilizer Association (IFA) and other leading organizations, influencing industry practices across agribusiness, renewable energy, and petrochemicals. A strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I), Jahangir fosters an environment of innovation and collaboration. Jahangir holds a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore, and completed the Advanced Management Program at INSEAD, Fontainebleau, France. His leadership is marked by a commitment to digital transformation and sustainability, ensuring FFC’s continued success in an evolving global market.

Marco Mazzamuto Carlucci

Ammonia Technology Leader
Casale SA

Mr. Marco Mazzamuto Carlucci holds a MSc in Chemical Engineering from Polytechnic University of Milan, Italy, finalized in September 2012.   In 2013, he started his career in Casale SA Syngas Dpt. firstly as Process Engineer involved in the process design, commissioning and start-up of Ammonia plants and afterwards as Senior Process Engineer leading several Feasibility Studies, Basic, Detail engineering design projects and relevant site activities.   In 2021 he was appointed Ammonia Technology Leader in the Syngas department, involved in the development and innovation of Ammonia technologies and their evolution into products up to market introduction.

Adrien Serve

Technical Sales Manager
UNICAT Catalyst Technologies, LLC

Adrien Serve holds a PhD in Catalysis from the University of Lyon. He started his career as an R&D engineer in the manufacturing of catalysts & grading. He then spent several years working on emission control for the chemical industry with a focus on the elimination of NOx and N2O from nitric acid plants. He has recently joined UNICAT Catalyst Technologies, LLC as Technical Sales Manager and leads the company’s efforts regarding the development of an innovative NH3-cracking catalyst technology.

Olivier Musset

Global Head of Energy Plus Group
Societe Generale

Olivier Musset is a Managing Director with Societe Generale in Paris and is their Global Head of the Energy Plus Group covering financial advisory services as well as project and structured financings for the oil & gas, power and renewable sectors and new emerging activities supporting the energy transition such as hydrogen and its derivatives, interconnectors, CCUS and BESS. Olivier is in charge of developing and implementing SG’s strategy to address the fundamental changes in the energy market, whilst at the same time establishing financing solutions for a number of new clean energy technologies emerging out of the energy transition, and related energy market opportunities deriving from those fundamental market changes. He has spent 30 years in the energy industry as a process engineer, consultant and banker. He joined Societe Generale in 1993 from Technip. Before joining SG’s project finance team in 1997, he worked as an in-house oil & gas and petrochemicals consultant. Olivier has a petroleum engineering degree and is a member of the French association for the energy industries, EVOLEN.

Thor Gallardo

Technology Manager – e-Methanol
KBR

Thor Gallardo is Technology Manager for Clean Methanol and Ammonia, Sustainable Technology Solutions at KBR. Thor has over 15 years of experience in operations with pulp and paper, energy industry, oil refining and hydrogen production. Thor has dedicated two decades to technology licensing, product development in hydrogen, ammonia and methanol processes. During the last five years he has been focusing on low-carbon technologies. He has a degree in chemical and industrial engineering from Universidad de Concepcion and an MBA from Texas A&M University.

Yuji Higashi

Deputy Manager
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd

Mr. Yuji Higashi has been working for chemical industries for more than 10 years. He joined the fertilizer project in Bangladesh and successfully completed the project in 2024.

Junji Asahara

Senior Deputy Manager
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.

Mr. Junji Asahara has been working for chemical industries for more than 15 years. He joined the fertilizer project in Bangladesh and successfully completed the project in 2024. He also joins several project for green transformation recently.

Sania Ejaz

Process Engineer
Engro Fertilizer

Sania is a chemical engineer with 8 years of experience, beginning her career as a utility process engineer and quickly demonstrating a strong ability for troubleshooting and process optimization. Her expertise led her to Engro Digital as a performance engineer, where she developed after-plant models for clients like Nomac, Habco, and Powergen, achieving significant operational improvements. In ammonia plant operations, Sania spearheaded projects involving DCS, historian IP-21, and DMS, further strengthening her skills in digital integration. Certified in ASPEN and EDR, Sania is passionate about sustainable solutions, bringing a blend of expertise and commitment to every project in the urea fertilizer industry.

Guglielmo Deodato

Ammonia Mechanical Technology Manager
Casale SA

Mr. Deodato received his Master Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Polytechnic University of Milan, Italy in 2008. From May 2008 to October 2012, he worked as mechanical engineer with Fedegari Autoclavi S.p.A., a mechanical industry specialised in sterilization autoclaves. In October 2012 he joined Casale as mechanical engineer following proprietary and pressure equipment for fertilizer and chemical planta. In 2023 he was appointed Senior Mechanical Engineer. From January 2025 his position is Ammonia Mechanical Technology Manager.

Silvia Cincera

Principal Piping Material Engineer
Casale SA

Silvia Cincera has a degree in Mechanical Engineering-Polytechnic University of Milan, Italy - 1996. IIS course in Welding technology and metallurgy - 1998. She is currently the Principal Piping Material Engineer, coordinating desigh and specification of all pipping bulk material and special pieces for fertilizer and chemical plants. With over 20 years of experience in engineering company (Foster Wheeler Italiana now Wood, Tecnimont now Maire), she has a strong knowledge in standards, design, and specification of components for the piping system of Oil and gas, Chemical and Fertilizer plants. The decade of collaboration with the department of Materials at Polytechnic Univercity of Milan enhanced the knowledge in the metallic and polymeric materials, especially in corrosion and failure analysis. Silvia has authored some peer-reviewed articles on failure analysis. 

Ahmed Mokhtar Afify

Ammonium Nitrate Maintenance General Manager
Abu Qir Fertilizer Company

Ahmed Mokhtar Afify is the General Manager of the Ammonium Nitrate Maintenance Department. With expertise in petrochemical plants maintenance, he has successfully managed significant projects, including the establishment of a UAN unit, replacing granulator carrying beams, revamping the filler dosing scale, and overseeing the replacement of the ammonium nitrate reaction vessel. His current focus is on enhancing operational efficiency and safety in petrochemical maintenance processes, driven by innovative solutions for complex engineering challenges.

Tayyab Ejaz

Inspection Engineer
Fauji Fertilizer Company Limited

Tayyab Ejaz is a skilled mechanical engineer with nearly 12 years of experience in asset reliability and maintenance at Fauji Fertilizer’s ammonia-urea complex. He has a strong background in both maintenance and inspection, focusing on developing inspection plans, conducting detailed assessments, executing major turnarounds, and ensuring the safety and reliability of important plant equipment. His dedication to professional growth is shown through his pursuit of advanced technical certifications, which enhance his skills and help him tackle complex challenges effectively. As a leader of a talented team, Tayyab shares his knowledge through industry conferences, publications, and mentorship, contributing to better safety, reliability, and efficiency in the field.

Andrea Orsetti

Senior Process Engineer
Nextchem Tech

Andrea Orsetti is a chemical engineer fueled by curiosity and a drive for innovation. With solid experience in EPC companies specializing in refinery and petrochemical sectors, he has transitioned to the green sector to tackle carbon emissions reduction. Passionate about technology, he focuses on carbon capture and green hydrogen, believing in their transformative potential. Actively involved in projects for green ammonia and green methanol, Andrea embraces challenges as opportunities to create sustainable solutions. His commitment to exploring new ideas and advancing cleaner energy technologies reflects his vision for a more sustainable future, inspiring others to join the journey toward environmental responsibility.

Ali El Sibai

Process Engineer
Stamicarbon

Ali El Sibai earned his PhD in Process Systems Engineering from Otto-von-Guericke University in Magdeburg, Germany. He gained extensive experience in large-scale process modeling and optimization during his work as a scientific researcher at Max Planck Institute for Dynamics of Complex Technical Systems, focusing on renewable energy production and storage. He joined Stamicarbon three and a half year ago as a modeling engineer and since then, he has been involved in the development and execution of projects related to digital products.Data Protection

Matteo Fumagalli

Urea Technology Manager
Casale SA

Matteo Fumagalli graduated in Chemical Engineering from Polytechnic University of Milan in 2009. After graduation he worked five years as Process Engineer in a chemical plant. After a brief experience as process engineer in a chemical plant where he got acquainted with field operations of a chemical facility, in 2014 he joined the Urea process department in Casale. During its career as process engineer, he was involved in several projects ranging from conceptual studies till complex revamping projects of which he also supervised the start-up. Since 2022 he devoted himself to the strengthening and development of Casale's urea know-how assuming the role of Urea Technology Manager, position which he currently holds. Position/Experience: After graduation he worked five years as Process Engineer in a chemical plant. Since 2014 he is part of CASALE. His current position is Urea Technology Manager in the Urea & Melamine Process Department.

Christian Berchthold

Global B2B Marketing Manager Syngas
Clariant

Christian Berchthold has a Master of Science in Economics from the University of Hagen, Germany, with the major subjects being marketing and finance. Mr. Berchthold has over 6 years of international experience in the marketing field, such as trade marketing, brand management, public relations and communication, working for companies within the Juvenile industry, and Clariant. For 2.5 years, he has been working at Clariant and is responsible for the Global B2B Marketing Syngas. In his role, he oversees Clariant's Syngas marketing strategy and marketing mix to enhance the customer journey and experience through various channels such as events, public relations, communication material, and trademark management.

Bernd Keil

Senior Process Engineer
thyssenkrupp Uhde GmbH

Bernd Keil studied process engineering at the Technical University of Hamburg-Harburg from 1987-1992. He completed his doctorate at the University of Karlsruhe from 1994-1997. He worked as postdoc at the Helmholtz Research Centre GKSS in Geesthacht from 1997-2001. Then he worked as a project engineer for Küttner GmbH in Essen from 2001-2005 and as a process engineer for Reinhold and Mahler, Frankfurt, from 2005-2007. He joined thyssenkrupp Uhde in 2007. Here he worked as a process engineer for ammonia projects. From 2008-2013 he was the project manager of Uhde’s ATR (autothermal reforming) pilot plant in Togliatti, Russia. Since 2014 he is the project manager for small scale ammonia plants and since 2017 working on green ammonia plants.   

Iacopo Cerea

Nitric Acid & ANS Technology Manager
Casale SA

Mr. Cerea has more than 24 years of experience in engineering.

Prior joining Casale, he worked as Project Engineer for Foster Wheeler Italia (Italy), Plant Site Engineer for Lamberti Chemicals Specialities (Italy) and Engineer Specialist for Nestlé Headquarter (Switzerland).  

He joined Casale as Process Leader in 2005 and he was appointed Process Manager in 2018 with the task of taking care mainly of Nitric acid and Ammonium Nitrate Solution technology. Since 2021 Mr. Cerea has the role of Nitric acid and Ammonium Nitrate Solution Technology Manager taking care of the following tasks:

• - Development, promotion, and supervision of the application of technologies and products of competence
• - Preparation of technical offer and international bids
• - Basic and Detailed Engineering for New WNA and ANS plants
• - WNA and ANS proprietary Equipment Process Design
• - Plant start-up and test run

Geir Arne Johansen

Product Manager – Process Gas Systems
Air Products

Geir Arne joined Air Products in 1991, after earning his bachelor's degree in technical cybernetics at Horten technical College, Norway. In his role at Air Products Membrane Solutions, he has primarily worked with membrane systems for application in both refineries and petrochemical plants. Geir Arne's all-encompassing experience with membrane systems sees him involved in sales, engineering, purchasing, fabrication, QA/QC, commissioning, and start-up of the system. He has accumulated a wide variety of experience during his career at Air Products, including roles in E&I, process control, process design, and now, as the global product manager for Engineered-to-Order (ETO) process gas systems.

Hendra Novi

Project Manager
Pupuk Kalimantan Timur

Hendra Novi was born in 1980 and served as a project manager in 2023 for an ammonium nitrate project in Bontang, Indonesia. In this role, he successfully managed complex industrial operations, coordinated resources, and ensured project efficiency. With a solid background in mechanical engineering, Hendra’s expertise is grounded in many years of practical experience and in-depth technical knowledge. He holds a Master’s degree from the prestigious Rochester Institute of Technology in the United States, where he expanded his understanding of engineering principles and advanced project management techniques. His professional journey reflects a deep commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes in challenging industrial projects.

Matthew Wilson

Senior Technical Expert
Johnson Matthey

Matthew is a Senior Technical Expert specialising in gauze technology for the nitric acid industry. During his time at Johnson Matthey he has been an R&D scientist within the precious metals, hydrogen and ammonia areas, with over seven years of experience in nitric acid technology. Matthew holds an MChem and PhD in physical chemistry from Durham University, with a focus on utilising surface science for catalyst optimisation.  

Akiko Ushifusa

Process Engineer
Toyo Engineering Corporation

Ms. Akiko USHIFUSA has been engaged in several projects as a process engineer of urea process licensor. She has been working for Toyo Engineering Corporation (TOYO) since graduating from a master’s course in chemical engineering at Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan.　Her responsibilities include engineering new licensing projects and EPC projects for urea plants. Currently, she is responsible for developing TOYO’s digital solution service, “DX-PLANT®”.

Mukesh Ahlavadi

Global Director of Chemical Applications and Markets
NobelClad

Mukesh Ahlavadi, Global Director for the Chemicals Market at NobelClad, holds a Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering and a Master's in Business Management from Grand Ecole HEC Paris. With over 20 years of expertise in chemical, downstream, and refining fabrication, he has excelled in various roles, including Production and Project Management, Sales, and Marketing within a leading Global Pressure Vessel Manufacturing company. Specializing in Explosion Bonding and Pressure Vessel Manufacturing, Mukesh serves as a trusted advisor to Licensors, End Users, EPCs, and Fabricators in the Fertilizer, Petrochemical, and Oil & Gas Industry, offering valuable insights and strategic guidance

Mayank Patel

Industry Strategy Director, Chemicals
Siemens Industry Software Limited

Mayank Patel is a Chemical Engineer with more than 13 years’ experience on advanced process modelling and optimisation, with an emphasis on reaction and adsorption applications, helping companies make the best use of model-based solutionsfor all stages of design and operation. At Siemens, Mayank is developing and executing a strategy to grow Siemens process automation software business in the chemical industry by defining a go-to-market strategy, identifying gaps in offering to contribute to product development roadmaps and providing strategic input and high-level technical account management.

Maged Eltobgy

Président Directeur Général
SORFERT Spa

Ermanno Filippi

CTO
Casale SA

Chemical Engineer, started in Solvay, then joined Casale in 1985 as Process Engineer. Involved in Projects related to revamping and New plants for Ammonia and Methanol production. Now responsible for the application and development of Technology in the Company.