Ascensus Specialties Announces Appointment of Dr. Emma Sceats as Chief Executive Officer

Ascensus Specialties has appointed Dr. Emma Sceats as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. A proven life sciences, electronics, and advanced materials leader, Dr. Sceats will guide the company's next phase of growth while strengthening customer partnerships, innovation, and supply chain excellence.

EVANS CITY, PA, September 15, 2026 – Ascensus Specialties today announced the appointment of Dr. Emma Sceats as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately, succeeding Paul Burlingame, who will transition to an advisory role supporting the Board and leadership team. 

 Sam Conzone, Chairman of the Board, said: 

 "On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Paul for his leadership and many contributions to Ascensus during his tenure. We are pleased that he will continue to support the company in an advisory capacity, helping to ensure a smooth transition." 

"Since joining Ascensus as the Chief Commercial Officer in January 2025, Emma has played a leading role in shaping the company's strategy and driving execution across our key growth platforms in life sciences, electronics and other advanced materials including Ascensus’ Strem Catalog. Her combination of commercial leadership, strategic vision, and deep industry experience makes her the natural choice to lead Ascensus through its next phase of growth." 

Prior to joining Ascensus, Dr. Sceats served as SVP of Marketing, Sales & Customer Service at Abcam, where she was a member of the executive leadership team that supported the company's $5.7 billion acquisition by Danaher. She brings more than 20 years of leadership experience across life sciences, electronics and advanced materials. 

Dr. Emma Sceats, Chief Executive Officer of Ascensus Specialties, said: 

"I am honored to lead Ascensus at this exciting point in the company's journey.  

 As demand increases for secure, high-quality supply chains supporting critical industries, Ascensus is uniquely positioned as a U.S.-based specialty chemicals manufacturer. Our products enable innovations ranging from next-generation medicines, including GLP-1 therapies, to semiconductor technologies that power AI and modern life. 

My focus will be on strengthening customer partnerships and investing in innovation to accelerate profitable growth, and further establishing Ascensus as the trusted partner of choice across life sciences, electronics and advanced materials." 

About Ascensus Specialties 

Ascensus Specialties is a leading manufacturer of specialty chemicals and advanced materials serving the life sciences, electronics and specialty chemicals markets through its Ascensus and Strem brands.