A HARTLEPOOL-based chemicals expert has taken up a national post as Chair of the Chemical Industries Association (CIA) Responsible Care Strategy Group.

Gary Watson who has worked at Venator for 29-years since leaving university in 1990, started his additional role at the CIA at the beginning of September.

Mr Watson is Venator’s UK Regional EHS Manager based at Greatham in Hartlepool and an industry expert in the field of Responsible Care.

A global initiative, Responsible Care is the chemical industry’s commitment to continual improvement in health, safety, security and environmental performance.

In the UK, Responsible Care covers the whole of the chemical supply chain, from manufacturers to distributors and logistics companies.

Mr Watson said he was "humbled and delighted" to take up his new role.

He added: "When I look at the names, positions and companies represented on both the strategy group and council, I think ‘wow’.

“I am thrilled and honoured to be part of these important and influential groups, and I’m proud to represent Venator on such a prestigious national forum.”

Venator has won the CIA Responsible Care awards category twice, in 2013 and 2019.

In 2014, Venator won three CIA awards for Environmental Leadership, Manufacturing & Resource Efficiency and Company of the Year.

In 2015, Venator was also named as winner of the CIA Health Leadership award.

Mr Watson said: “For me, Responsible Care is about caring for our people, our assets, our environment and our communities. Some people call this EHS; I call it caring."