Brussels, 24 August 2016 – To reinforce its public affairs team, Cefic, the EU chemical industry council, has welcomed on board Irene van Luijken as its new Communications Director.

Following on from the recent appointment of Aaron McLoughlin as Executive Director of Public Affairs at the beginning of August, Irene’s role will focus on strategic communications to raise awareness of the achievements of the EU chemical industry. Cefic’s public affairs work aims to raise the voice of the EU chemical industry on a European stage with top decision makers, and highlight its proven value to the European economy.

States Marco Mensink, Cefic Director General, “We’re pleased to welcome Irene on board as our new Communications Director. She not only brings with her a wealth of communications experience, but specifically worked in the EU chemical sector and therefore has a deep understanding of the industry’s challenges. This will strengthen Cefic’s outreach both to members and external stakeholders as we move towards exciting times for our industry.”

With a career of over 15 years in communications and public affairs, Irene joins Cefic from the Dutch chemical industry association (VNCI ) where she worked since 2011 as its Head of Communication and Public Affairs. As part of the VNCI management team, she successfully initiated and developed its public affairs strategy, reinforced the reputation of the Dutch chemical industry and worked with important stakeholders. She also worked closely with Cefic during her tenure. Between 2003 and 2011, Irene worked in corporate communications at Shell International PLC, holding a variety of senior positions.

She holds an MA in Japanese language and culture with an economic/juridical focus and completed postgraduate training in international and EU law. Irene speaks Dutch, English, German, Japanese, and French.

For enquiries: Dervla Gleeson, Cefic Media Relations Manager (dgl@cefic.be)

About Cefic: Cefic – the EU chemical industry council – is the voice of over 29,000 chemical companies in Europe. We represent over 1.2 million jobs in Europe. www.cefic.org