Throughout his career, Helminiak has built working relationships with federal agencies including the Environmental Protection Agency, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Office of Management and Budget, Congress and the White House. He has led cross-industry coalitions on issues including TSCA implementation, chemical risk evaluation, sustainability, trade and environmental compliance.

“Robert brings the right combination of regulatory expertise, strategic vision and association leadership to guide CPMA forward,” said Aaron Hollman, Board Chair of CPMA and vice president of sales, Color Materials Americas, Sun Chemical. “He understands the challenges facing the pigments industry and has a proven ability to strengthen advocacy, expand collaboration across the value chain and deliver meaningful value to members. The Board is confident Robert will be an exceptional leader for CPMA.”

Helminiak succeeds David Wawer, who is retiring after more than a decade as executive director. Under Wawer’s leadership, CPMA expanded its advocacy role and strengthened engagement across the North American color pigments industry.

As executive director, Helminiak will focus on advancing CPMA’s advocacy leadership, expanding collaboration across the pigments value chain, advancing practical sustainability initiatives, growing membership and ensuring the association remains financially strong and responsive to member needs.

This leadership appointment reflects ongoing developments across Pigments and regulatory engagement impacting the paint and coatings supply chain.