Speakers
Hugh Welsh (“Hugh”) is the President & General Counsel of DSM North America. DSM is the global life sciences and material sciences leader with more than 23,000 employees worldwide and 2011 revenue of more than $11B. Hugh currently serves on several DSM global and regional management teams and is responsible for legal, government affairs, corporate communications, financial and HR and other shared services, corporate partnerships and DSM’s sustainability, inclusion and diversity initiatives in the region North America. He is the executive sponsor of DSM’s Women’s Inspired Network and Mentoring Programs. During the course of his 20 year career Hugh has played a leading role in addressing legal, regulatory, political, and general industry issues in the nutrition, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, food, polymer and resins markets.
Hugh’s industry knowledge and innovative approach to corporate engagement with external stakeholders has made him a valuable contributor to several trade associations and a sought after speaker in the fields of public/private partnership, sustainability and government affairs, and issues of diversity and inclusion. Hugh currently serves on the Board of Directors of the American Chemistry Council, Partners in Food Solutions and the Business Civic Leadership Center of the US Chamber of Commerce. Some of Hugh’s speaking engagements in 2012 include the Keynote speech at NJ’s Tribute to Women in Industry Awards and at the United Nations on Women’s Economic Empowerment on International Women Day. Hugh was named 2012’s NJBIZ General Counsel of the Year and the United Nations/Foundation for Social Change 2011 Leader of Change.