Johan Van Walsem

Johan Van Walsem serves as the Chief Operations Officer, bringing over 30 years of experience in PHA business development to his role. He holds a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Pretoria and an MBA from the University of South Africa. Van Walsem has a notable history of leadership in the industry, having previously served as President and COO of Sierra Energy Corporation before returning to his current position. His professional achievements include significant improvements in operations and the introduction of new products at a 25-million-pound lysine production plant. In his current role, he oversees the company’s operations and manages full-scale manufacturing. Van Walsem is particularly inspired by the challenge of commercializing materials that not only possess enhanced functionality but are also produced through sustainable processes utilizing renewable feedstocks and avoiding toxic chemicals.