Paul Oreffice, Ex-CEO Of Dow Chemical, Passes Away At 97

Paul Oreffice, former CEO of Dow Chemical, known for his leadership and confrontations during the 1970s and 1980s, passed away at 97 on December 26, 2024, at his home in Paradise Valley, Arizona.

Under Paul Oreffice’s leadership, Dow Chemical navigated a complex landscape of challenges and change. He faced public criticism for the company’s role in producing Agent Orange, addressing dioxin pollution, and manufacturing silicone breast implants, all while making the controversial decision to withdraw from apartheid South Africa. Oreffice, who was well-known for vocally opposing government regulation, changed Dow by guiding it into consumer goods and foreign markets.

His leadership saw intense legal battles, including a high-profile case with the Environmental Protection Agency and a settlement with Vietnam veterans over Agent Orange. Despite the controversies, Oreffice’s strategic vision helped Dow achieve record profits by 1987, marking an essential era for the company.