Holli A. Woodard, MBA, has established herself as a distinguished marketing professional with more than two decades of experience to her credit. She currently serves as the global marketing and North America business director at LyondellBasell Industries Holdings B.V. in Commerce, Michigan, a position she has held since 2024. In this capacity, she has been at the forefront of leading diverse teams across the globe, a role that has brought her immense fulfillment. She believes that her leadership abilities have allowed her to create an inclusive environment where every voice is valued, drawing from variety of perspectives she encounters.
Ms. Woodard’s experience also includes being a global sustainability market research leader at Eastman Chemical from 2022 to 2023. In this capacity, she spearheaded initiatives that aligned with sustainable practices, furthering the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility. From 2019 to 2022, she was the innovation leader in strategic marketing at Eastman, where she played a pivotal role in driving forward-thinking strategies and fostering innovation within the organization.
Ms. Woodard’s career also includes a significant tenure at BASF as a senior global market development manager from 2012 to 2019. During this period, she was instrumental in expanding market reach and developing new business opportunities. Her earlier roles include serving as an account manager at The Dow Chemical Company from 2007 to 2012 and working as a formulation chemist at Sherwin-Williams in Chicago from 2005 to 2007. She began her career as a research associate at A123 Systems Corp in Ann Arbor from 2004 to 2005 and Henkel Corporation in Madison Heights from 2002 to 2004.
Ms. Woodard laid a strong academic foundation, earning a Bachelor of Science in polymers and coatings chemistry from Eastern Michigan University, completed in 2004, and a Master of Business Administration in marketing and international business from Wayne State University in 2017. She also holds certifications such as the Digital Marketing Professional Certificate from Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and certifications in social media marketing and content marketing from HubSpot Academy, all obtained in 2023.
Reflecting on her path, Ms. Woodard discovered her passion for polymer chemistry early in her academic journey, guided by a high school chemistry teacher who recognized her potential. With limited universities offering a specialized program in polymers and coatings technology, she explored Eastern Michigan University, where she had a hands-on experience formulating her own can of paint. This pivotal moment solidified her interest in polymer chemistry and set the foundation for her future career in science and innovation. Additionally, she takes pride in navigating a male-dominated industry, particularly in the chemical sector, where she often found herself as the only woman in her business unit. A pivotal moment came when a customer dismissed her capabilities solely based on her gender. Rather than letting it deter her, she took it as a challenge and ultimately earned his respect.
Ms. Woodard attributes her success to humility, a core value instilled by her father, whose unwavering support and guidance have been instrumental throughout her journey. In advising aspiring professionals, she emphasizes that “silence is golden.” She says taking time to observe the people she interacts with has enabled her to glean crucial insights, informing her decision-making process.
Outside of her professional life, Ms. Woodard enjoys cooking, spending time on the water, traveling, and going to the gym. Looking to the future, she aspires to elevate her career by positioning herself for the role of vice president within her company and is committed to expanding her skills and deepening her industry knowledge to achieve this goal.