Kerry Pianoforte, Editor02.28.22
Dr. Phil Phillips, former president and managing partner of The CHEMARK Consulting Group passed away February 9.
Dr. Phillips acquired The CHEMARK Consulting Group, Inc., a global consulting firm. Prior to that, he held management positions as VP or Director of several large coatings and adhesives businesses prior to launching his consultancy career.
Among his accomplishments, Dr. Phillips spearheaded both large and small strategic acquisitions globally for Fortune 1000 companies. His Value Selling model has been incorporated with successful results along the coatings, paints, adhesives, sealants and specialty chemicals value chain.
Dr. Phillips received a BS in Marketing from University of Akron, MBA courses at Northwestern Kellogg School of Business and his PhD. in International Business, Warren National University.
He was a member of various industry associations including American Coatings Association), SME, ASC and SPE. He served as contributing editor for Coatings World magazine, writing Business Corner, a monthly column. Dr. Phillips was inducted into the Powder Coating Hall of Fame in 2013.
Dr. Phillips was well regarded among his peers and colleagues he worked with in the industry.
“Exceptional people standout and are recognized by their peers for what they have accomplished and achieved during their lifetime,” said Gary Shawan, president of The CHEMARK Consulting Group. “Of these only a few are also remembered for what they have given to others along the way. Phil Phillip’ legacy in our industry is highlighted by the many individuals he has mentored, given advice to and been there with a helping hand for individuals transitioning in their careers. It is for all these reasons that Phil will be remembered by so many.”
“Phil was one of my oldest friends in the industry,” noted Dale Pritchett, publisher of Coatings World. “When I started Coatings World in 1996 there were already four other coatings magazines in the U.S. and people questioned the need for a fifth. But Phil recognized that we were offering business and technical editorial along with global circulation which was unique at that time. Phil’s consulting firm the CHEMARK Consulting Group went on to contribute a monthly business column that grew to be one of the most popular columns in the magazine. I often referred to Phil as the smartest person in the industry, but he was also one of the most affable.”
"Phil was a true gentlemen, always helpful to and supportive of everyone at ACA," said Andy Doyle, president and CEO of the American Coatings Association. "He will be remembered fondly by all of us at the association and by his many friends throughout the industry."
“Yes, Phil was a dear friend of ours, and he will be sorely missed," said Steve McDaniel, chief innovation cfficer, Reactive Surfaces. "But, his passing also leaves a hole in our company. Phil was there from the very first product launch. He mentored us in every aspect of the coatings business. He never lost faith in our fledgling company or our goal to bring bio-based functional additives into reality. He was elated when we would win recognition, and he steadfastly encouraged us when doors were slammed in our faces. So, when I say there is now a hole in our company, I mean it very literally.”
Phillip “Phil” G. Phillips, 84, of Southern Pines, North Carolina. Phil was born in Ravenswood, West Virginia. He graduated from Akron University with a BS Business Administration and Marketing Degree, completed a Master’s program and then went on to earn a Ph.D. Phil worked in the chemical business with an emphasis in powder coatings his entire career and later on began his own consulting business.
During his career, he was inducted into the Powder Coating Hall of Fame by his peers. He was on the Management Committees and Board of Directors for several corporations, co-founder of the Association of Finishing Processors for the Society of Manufacturers Engineers Powder Coating Division and the National Paint & Coatings Association. He loved his work.
Phil was a huge Ohio State fan (GO BUCKS) and when not working, he loved sports along with traveling to Europe with friends, spending time with his family and his dogs. Before moving to North Carolina, Phil and Pat lived in Birmingham, Michigan where he began his consulting business.
Phil was above all a Christian man and a dedicated member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
He is survived by the love of his life, Patricia “Pat” of 41 years, his three children, Mark and his husband, Grant, of New York, John and his wife, Lorraine, of Pinehurst, Matthew of Florida and step-sister, Ann Marie Phillips step-sister.. Phil is also survived by his brother, Paul, of Wisconsin and his wife, Carole, brother-in-law, Michael Chiello and his wife, Julie, of Florida, eight nieces, two nephews, three grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.
