Avient Appointed Mike Frank as Chief Executive Officer
The specialty materials provider has named a new leader as the outgoing CEO transitions to an advisory role.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in People
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The board of directors at Avient has appointed Mike Frank to serve as the company's president and chief executive officer. He succeeds Ashish Khandpur, who has stepped down from the top executive post.
Why it matters
Leadership transitions at major specialty chemical and materials firms often signal shifts in operational strategy or market focus. Operators should monitor these changes to identify potential adjustments to supply chain priorities or product development timelines.
Mike Frank joins Avient after serving as CEO of UPL Corp. since 2022. The transition includes a lengthy handover period for his predecessor.
The players
Mike Frank
The new president and CEO of Avient who previously led UPL Corp. as its chief executive starting in 2022.
Ashish Khandpur
The former president and CEO of Avient who is remaining with the organization in an advisory capacity.
Avient
A specialty materials and chemical company that operates at a global scale providing polymer solutions.
The details
The board of directors orchestrated this executive change to lead the firm into its next phase of operations. While Ashish Khandpur has vacated the CEO position, he remains attached to the company to facilitate the leadership handoff. This structure ensures institutional continuity as the new CEO takes over management duties.
Timeline
October 9, 2026: Mike Frank appointed president and CEO of Avient.
2022: Mike Frank began serving as CEO of UPL Corp.
December 31, 2026: Ashish Khandpur ends advisory role at Avient.
Market Landscape
This leadership shuffle reflects the broader trend of major materials companies using long-term transition agreements to ensure continuity during management changes. It follows the precedent established by firms like Eastman Chemical in managing complex executive handoffs.
Operators dealing with Avient should keep existing procurement contacts until the new leadership stabilizes its strategy. Monitor year-end communications for updates on any shifts in corporate material supply agreements.
The takeaway
Large specialty material firms frequently use extended advisory roles to bridge leadership gaps. Owners should calendar December 31, 2026, as the final date for the current advisory transition and re-evaluate partnership terms at that time.
Further reading
For more on executive shifts, visit our People section.
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