Khoo

A Schulman is a leading international supplier of high-performance plastic compounds, composites, and resins used across various industries. The company specializes in proprietary and custom-formulated engineered plastic compounds, composites, and additives that enhance the performance, appearance, and processing of plastics in specialized applications. With five Innovation & Collaboration Centres worldwide, A Schulman is committed to developing new products and addressing the most challenging needs of its customers.

‍Market Presence and Industry Expertise

The company’s products serve diverse markets, including packaging, mobility, construction, electronics, agriculture, personal care, hygiene, sports, leisure, and home applications. A Schulman is known for its superior service and high-quality materials tailored for industries such as injection molding, extrusion, blown-film extrusion, rotational and blow molding, and thermoforming. Its deep industry knowledge enables customers to create widely used products across the globe.

The Leadership of Khoo Kay Khoon

Khoo Kay Khoon has been the Managing Director of A Schulman Plastics since October 2016. A seasoned senior executive with extensive P&L management experience, he is recognized for driving top-line and bottom-line growth, strategic planning, and business transformation. With over 20 years of leadership experience across commercial, manufacturing, and supply chain management, he has successfully operated in industries ranging from steel and paper to plastics, FMCG packaging, food, beverages, printing, and chemicals.

Khoo is well-versed in Lean Manufacturing, Operational and Commercial Excellence, and compliance with GMP, FDA, and ISO standards. His ability to lead diverse teams in American, European, and Asian enterprises has positioned him as an inspiring and collaborative leader who consistently delivers excellent results.

Turning the Business Around

Since taking over in 2016, Khoo has revitalized A Schulman’s financial performance and driven continued growth. Under his leadership, the company introduced a new manufacturing line tailored for a market-leading client. Despite economic challenges that had previously caused a decline in business, he successfully reversed the trend and positioned the company for sustained success.

Khoo attributes the turnaround to a three-step strategy: establishing and communicating a clear direction, realigning the organizational structure to a leaner and more efficient model, and enforcing disciplined execution with regular communication and a commitment to excellence. His leadership has injected new investments and talent into the company, supporting its long-term positive outlook.

Overcoming Challenges and Building a Leadership Culture

Khoo believes that the biggest challenges in business are related to people’s mindset and behavior. Instilling a culture of continuous improvement across all levels of the company has been a priority. When he took over, the team faced a loss of confidence due to market softening and business decline. Through strategic direction, organizational restructuring, and relentless execution, he rebuilt morale and refocused the company on growth.

For Khoo, leadership is not just about personal success but about mentoring and developing the next generation of leaders. His approach ensures that A Schulman continues to innovate and lead in the plastics industry while fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.

‍

‍