Luciano Poli and Dow Chemical: A Partnership in Progress and Innovation

Luciano Poli is a transformative leader in the fast-evolving world of chemicals and materials. He is the President of Dow Chemical for India, the Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey (IMENAT), with responsibility for regional growth strategies and ensuring that the company stays at the forefront of innovation, sustainability, and inclusiveness. Being at the heart of Dubai, home to much economic activity across the region, Poli has led from the forefront in guiding Dow to emerge stronger in the exciting markets here.

Working in a firm that continuously looks to progress as a customer-centric house offering sustainability solutions towards problems in all facets of society through his diligent working, his professional work always merges strategic insights and operational knowhow, so well respected and accomplished in the chemicals industry.

Luciano Poli started his journey with Dow Chemical in 1989 at Horgen, Switzerland. The last three decades have taken him through various leadership assignments across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. His experience ranges from critical functions such as treasury, corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and joint venture management. Some of the notable steps in his career include being an Area Finance Director and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Dow Asia Pacific and after that, for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA). Through these periods, he worked on a wide range of financial activities, including tax management, investor relations, strategic planning, and risk governance.

In 2012, Poli moved to Saudi Arabia where he took the position as the Chief Financial Officer of Sadara Chemical Company, the largest chemical complex built in one phase. His role proved vital in executing Dow’s strategies in the Middle East and Asia Pacific, mainly focused on joint ventures and large-scale petrochemical projects.

Since becoming the President of IMENAT in 2017, Poli has concentrated on building growth in one of Dow’s most promising regions. His leadership has helped make the company’s footprint even stronger in these diverse markets through the resolution of their challenges. Through its rich portfolio, Dow has exploited these markets to fulfil the need for innovative and sustainable chemical solutions. From facilitating joint ventures with local companies to implementing mega-projects, Poli has furthered the commitment of Dow to the economic development of the region.

One of the primary missions of Poli for Dow is to instil a culture of innovation and sustainability. He has always been an advocate of inclusive business practices and has contributed to the efforts of Dow toward developing environmentally responsible solutions. This commitment is in line with worldwide trends that focus on sustainability for the chemical industry.

Dow’s strategy with Poli at the helm is developing products that lessen environmental footprint, building alliances that create innovation, and ensuring that business strategies are well aligned with local and global sustainability objectives. Poli sits on the boards of significant joint ventures such as EQUATE Petrochemical Co., The Kuwait Olefins Company, and The Kuwait Styrene Company. His board experience is reflective of his ability to navigate challenging situations while achieving collaborative success.

Poli’s contributions extend beyond business operations. As a member of various ethics and compliance committees, he plays a crucial role in shaping corporate governance standards at Dow. His leadership is a testament to his deep understanding of the industry and his dedication to ethical and sustainable business practices.