COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The United States Olympic Committee today announced the addition of Robert L. Wood to its board of directors. Wood’s nomination was conditionally approved at the USOC’s board meeting on June 30, pending a customary administrative background check.
“The USOC board of directors is a dedicated group of volunteers committed to providing America’s elite athletes with the resources they need to be successful,” said USOC Chairman Larry Probst. “I’d like to thank Bob for his willingness to serve in this role and help advance the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic movements.”
Wood was named chairman of the National Gymnastics Foundation’s board of directors in 2009. He also serves on the board of directors for Praxair Corporation and Jorden Corporation. Previously, Wood served as chairman, president and CEO of Chemtura Corporation from 2006-08 after the chemical company merged with Crompton Corporation, where Wood served in the same role beginning in 2004.
Wood joined Crompton after having spent 27 years at The Dow Chemical Company, where he progressed from the role of sales trainee up to business group president. In his time at Dow, Wood held positions in nearly every business department and worked directly with the CEO to manage a $5 billion portfolio of global businesses.
“Bob has a long and successful career in business and brings to our board a unique background and set of capabilities that will make our organization better,” said Dave Ogrean, chairman, USOC Nominating and Governance Committee. “I look forward to working with Bob and our entire board to help Team USA succeed on and off the field of play.”
Wood maintained an interest in sport throughout his career, serving as vice chairman of the Indiana Sports Corporation from 1992-94, and as a member of the USA Gymnastics board of directors from 1994-2008. In 2009, he was named chairman of the National Gymnastics Foundation’s board of directors. He also served on the NCAA Leadership Advisory Board.
“The men and women that make up Team USA are some of the most extraordinary people on the planet and it’s an absolute honor to be associated with them,” said Wood. “I’m hopeful that my experience and skillsets can be a positive addition to a very strong board of directors and I’m excited to get started.”
Additionally, Wood held previous stints as chairman of Big Brothers/Big Sisters, the American Plastics Council and the American Chemistry Council.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Michigan.
Swimming news courtesy of United States Olympic Committee.