Dow Inc. has announced that Karen S. Carter will become its next chief executive officer, effective July 1, 2026, marking a historic leadership transition that places her among a small group of Black women leading Fortune 500 companies.
Carter, who currently serves as the company’s chief operating officer, will succeed Jim Fitterling, who will transition to the role of Executive Chair of the Board. In a public statement,
Carter acknowledged Fitterling’s leadership, crediting him with guiding the company through significant transformation while strengthening its corporate culture and strategic direction.
“I’ve learned a great deal working alongside him, and I’m grateful for his partnership and continued leadership,” Carter said.
A veteran of more than three decades at Dow, Carter began her career as an intern in 1994 and has since held a wide range of leadership roles across business operations, sales and marketing, and human resources.
Her experience spans multiple facets of the company’s global operations, positioning her as a deeply embedded leader with institutional knowledge and strategic insight.
“As we look ahead, my focus is simple: execute with discipline, stay close to our customers, operate safely, and deliver results the right way,” Carter said in a LinkedIn post. “I know the people, the work, and the responsibility that comes with this role.”
In her current role as COO and member of the executive committee, Carter has overseen companywide operations, including Dow’s core business segments and key functional areas. She has also played a central role in driving innovation and strengthening customer engagement.
Prior to becoming COO, Carter served as president of Dow’s Packaging & Specialty Plastics segment—the company’s largest operating division and a major global supplier of polyethylene resins and functional polymers.
Her appointment carries broader significance beyond the company. According to Fortune, Carter will become one of only three Black women currently serving as CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, joining leaders such as Thasunda Brown Duckett and Joi Harris.
“I am deeply honored to assume the role of CEO and lead Dow into our next chapter,” Carter said in the company’s announcement. “Our focus remains unwavering: delivering reliable and innovative solutions for our customers, and long-term value for our employees and shareholders.”
Carter’s elevation reflects both her long-standing contributions to Dow and a gradual shift toward greater diversity in corporate leadership at the highest levels of American business.
