Stepan Company announced that Edward J. Wehmer will retire from its board of directors, effective April 29, 2025, following the company’s next annual meeting of stockholders. Wehmer, who joined the board in 2003, has served as lead independent director since 2016 and was chair of the audit committee from 2007 to 2023.

“Ed has brought his considerable expertise and leadership to the board, helping guide the company’s growth and strategic direction,” said F. Quinn Stepan Jr., chairman of Stepan Company. “We are sincerely grateful for his commitment to delivering value to shareholders and supporting our long-term success.”

Following Wehmer’s retirement, the company’s board will be reduced from eight to seven directors, with Randall S. Dearth succeeding him as lead independent director.

Stepan Company is a global manufacturer of specialty and intermediate chemicals, producing surfactants, polyurethane polyols, and other industrial materials used in a range of markets, including cleaning, agriculture and coatings.