A Conversation with Vera Stoeva, Interim President & CEO 

In this Q&A, Vera shares her vision for SOCMA’s future, her commitment to member engagement during this transition, and the leadership philosophy that guides her approach to supporting our industry’s continued growth and innovation.

As SOCMA’s new Interim President & CEO, Vera Stoeva brings more than six years of deep organizational knowledge and a passion for the specialty chemical industry to her leadership role. Having grown from SVP of Finance and Administration to COO before stepping into the CEO position, Vera understands both the intricacies of SOCMA’s operations and the evolving needs of our members.

Q: How has your experience as COO prepared you for the interim CEO role?
I’ve been with SOCMA for more than six years, starting as SVP of Finance and Administration before becoming COO. Growing within the organization has given me a real understanding of how SOCMA works and how we serve our members. I’ve played a role in the big decisions, from strategic planning, major projects like our trade show, and shaping programs that matter most to members.


I’m naturally curious, and that’s helped me learn about this industry and the incredible ways specialty chemicals touch so many products in our daily lives. What I’ve found most inspiring, though, is our team. SOCMA is where it is today because of its hard work, dedication, and the strong support of our board.


Stepping into the interim CEO role feels natural because I already know our staff, our culture, our members, and the specialty chemical industry. From my first day at SOCMA,  I’ve felt the encouragement of our staff and members, and it was immediately clear to me that this is an effective and truly special organization. My focus is to keep that stability and build on the momentum we’ve created together.

Q: What excites you most about SOCMA’s future and its role in the specialty chemical industry?

What excites me most is how SOCMA continues to grow and modernize, even as a 100-plus-year-old organization. We’re always listening to our members and looking ahead to the trends that matter, whether that’s technology, regulations, or market shifts.

Part of what makes this such an exciting time is that support for American manufacturing is the strongest it’s been in decades, and SOCMA members are primed to take advantage. There is a real interest in keeping and expanding an American footprint, and despite the challenges we face, our members see an opportunity and are ready to seize it.

I’m inspired every day by how deeply this industry touches our lives and the constant innovation it delivers. It makes me proud to wear the SOCMA logo and champion our members. Looking ahead, I’m excited to keep sharing that story, shining a light on the positive impact of the specialty chemical industry, and giving our members even more tools, connections, and opportunities to succeed.

Q: How do you intend to engage and support SOCMA members during this leadership transition?


For me, it starts with listening. I want members to feel heard and supported, and I’ll keep those lines of communication open. At the same time, we’ll keep delivering the things members rely on—like advocacy in Washington, ChemOps, and the SOCMA Show.


This year, we have some great opportunities to connect: the Contract Manufacturing Outlook Report will give members valuable intel, the 2025 SOCMA Summit in San Antonio will bring us together under the theme Resilient, Regional, Ready, and our new executive dinner series will create smaller, more personal settings to share ideas and build business ties.


My focus is on ensuring that members see real value in these programs, while also knowing that SOCMA is here to listen, support, and help them succeed. 


Q: Can you share a bit about your personal background and what inspired you to work in the specialty chemical industry?


I’ve always been drawn to understanding how things work, with a curiosity that started in childhood and carried through a career in finance and operations. Joining SOCMA sparked a deep appreciation for the complexity and impact of specialty chemicals, which touch nearly every aspect of modern life. This industry fuels my curiosity, challenges my thinking, and gives me the chance to make a meaningful impact by supporting innovators solving real-world problems.


Q: What’s one leadership lesson you’ve learned throughout your career that you think everyone should know?

I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about having all the answers, but about staying curious, listening, and moving forward with intention. The best leaders create space for discovery, invite diverse perspectives, and remain open to learning. I strive to lead with steady confidence while asking, “What don’t we know yet?”—a mindset that keeps us adaptable, connected, and focused on what truly matters.

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