Air Products

Eduardo F. Menezes, a long-time industrial gases executive from Linde, became CEO effective February 7, 2025, with Wayne T. Smith as Chairman following a shareholder-driven board refresh. Early actions include reviewing and exiting lower-return projects and reiterating focus on core gases.

The leadership pedigree is strong and industry-relevant, but tenure is short and must be proven through execution, returns on invested capital, and balance sheet stewardship. Sources: Feb 4, 2025 press release filed as EX-99.1 on SEC; related Reuters coverage of the proxy contest outcomes.