Diary of a Polygiene CEO – Interviewing Dr. Sandrine Garnier

With a PhD in Polymer Sciences, extensive international experience across the specialty chemicals and advanced materials sectors, and a proven track record in high-level leadership roles, Sandrine is well-equipped to lead Polygiene in the next phase of our journey. 

In this introductory interview, we discuss her first six months in the role, the recent company meeting in Berlin, and Sandrine’s long-term vision for the company.

Hi, Sandrine! Can you tell us a little about yourself?

I was born into a French-Dutch family, studied in South Africa, travelled extensively during my early career, and now live in the UK while working in Sweden. Looking back, I’ve probably spent almost as much time in airports as I have in offices!

I am a scientist by training and nature, and my curiosity has always been a big motivator. There’s a part of me that’s always asking why? The need to answer that seemingly simple question is there whether I’m exploring new technologies or trying to understand customer challenges.

Over the years I’ve worked across a wide range of industries, from adhesives and specialty polymer emulsions to functional additives and emerging green technologies, such as nanobubbles and plant-based polymers. I guess the common thread is an interest in innovation and the capacity for new technologies to solve real-world problems.

How have you found your first six months as Polygiene Group CEO?

They’ve flown by! Returning to Polygiene has genuinely felt a bit like coming home. There’s something special about rejoining a business when you already know many of the people, understand the culture, and are connected to its history.

Of course, a lot has happened since I was last here, so it also feels like I’m seeing the company through fresh eyes. I’ve enjoyed reconnecting with colleagues, meeting new team members, and developing a more thorough understanding of where we stand as a company and where we want to go next.

Have there been any particular highlights during this period?

Launching Polygiene OdorCrunch 2.0 in March. Introducing technology simultaneously at two of the world’s biggest textile trade shows, Performance Days in Munich and Functional Fabric Fair in Portland, was extremely exciting and demonstrated the importance we place on ongoing innovation.

Spending time with customers and partners has been another highlight. There is something very motivating about seeing firsthand how our technologies are helping brands create products that people genuinely value.

What personal experience or insights were you excited to bring to Polygiene?

One of the benefits of leaving and coming back is that you return with fresh perspectives. Over the past few years, I’ve worked closely with start-ups and growth businesses, and that has reminded me how important it is to stay focused on the fundamentals – understanding your customers, clearly communicating your value, and embracing opportunities to challenge the status quo.

I hope I can bring some of that entrepreneurial energy and customer focus back to Polygiene, while building on the strong foundations already in place.

What do you see as Polygiene’s biggest strength as a company? 

Without a doubt, it’s our people.

Technology matters. Innovation matters. Brands matter. But ultimately, it is our people who make the difference. The passion, dedication, and expertise across the business are what enable us to build strong customer relationships and continue developing industry-leading solutions.

Polygiene recently held our annual company meeting in Berlin. What were your big takeaways?

The biggest takeaway for me was the power of alignment. We have talented people spread across different countries, functions, and markets, and bringing everyone together creates a shared understanding of where we are heading and why.

It was also a great reminder of how much energy and experience exists across the organization. There is something special about stepping away from video calls and spending time together in person.

What does the immediate future hold for Polygiene?

There is no denying that the current business environment is challenging. Geopolitical uncertainty, volatile raw material costs, particularly silver, and continued pressure on global supply chains are resulting in headwinds across many industries.

Our focus is on navigating these challenges with resilience while continuing to support our customers, invest in innovation, and strengthen our position for the future. Challenging periods also create opportunities to improve, adapt, and emerge stronger.

What about your long-term vision?

My vision centers on profitable growth, continued innovation, and diversification. We have built a strong reputation and leadership position, and I want to see us expand that into new technologies, new applications, and adjacent markets.

At the same time, enlarging our network of co-branded partners remains incredibly important because we grow together. Our role is to help partners create better products, deliver greater value, and strengthen their own brands.

What do you do to wind down after a long week or a workday?

I love spending time in the garden. Growing vegetables is surprisingly good for keeping things in perspective. Plants don’t really care about quarterly forecasts!

I also enjoy cooking and baking. There is something very satisfying about turning a handful of ingredients into a great meal and sharing it with family and friends.