Michael Benstead

R&d Centre Manager

Michael Benstead is an experienced professional in the field of polymer research and development, currently serving as the R&D Centre Manager at Sappi since November 2025. Prior to this role, Michael held the position of R&D Director at Mitsubishi Chemical Methacrylates, leading the EU PMMA Polymer R&D group from November 2022 to November 2025. Michael's career at INVISTA spanned nearly a decade, where roles included Director of Business Development and Business Development Manager, focusing on applications for PA66, as well as responsibilities in new product development for Novadyn(TM) HPPA materials. Initially, Michael contributed to R&D efforts on high-performance polyamides as both a Senior R&D Scientist and Polymer Scientist. Michael gained early experience as a KTP Associate at both the University of Manchester and Victrex, contributing to the development of poly(ether ketone)-based materials. Michael holds a PhD in Synthetic Organic Chemistry and an MChem in Chemistry from the University of Hull.

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