John Burrows is a seasoned executive with over 50 years of transformative leadership across the specialty food, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and chemical industries. With a proven track record of driving innovation, executing successful turnarounds, and achieving global market penetration, John’s career spans continents and industries, making him a sought-after advisor, board member, and strategic leader. His commitment to empowering others through mentorship and shared expertise underscores his legacy as a leader who creates lasting value.
Currently self-employed as a strategic consultant and board member, John provides expert guidance to CEOs and senior management teams, specializing in corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, financial analysis, and business strategy. Leveraging decades of hands-on experience, he helps organizations navigate complex challenges and capitalize on growth opportunities. His international exposure, having conducted business in over 80 countries and lived in Denmark, lends him a unique global perspective on business dynamics.
Previously, as the Chief Executive Officer of Bartek Ingredients, John led the company to new heights by expanding market share, enhancing operational efficiency, and diversifying its product portfolio. Over five years, he oversaw two state-of-the-art facilities in Southern Ontario and served customers in more than 50 countries. His leadership helped position Bartek as a global leader in the production of malic and fumaric acids, key components in food and beverage innovation.
Before joining Bartek, John served as President & CEO of Delavau LLC, where he executed a dramatic turnaround, increasing pharmaceutical revenue by 400% and pioneering innovative manufacturing processes. His tenure at Delavau exemplifies his ability to deliver strategic transformation and create a competitive edge in challenging markets.
As an Operating Partner at Element Partners, John played a critical role in turning around portfolio companies, including leading Energex, a renewable energy firm, to profitability. He also served on the boards of multiple Element portfolio companies, lending his expertise to diverse sectors such as medical devices, specialty manufacturing, and electronics.
John’s leadership at SPI Holding Company is a testament to his strategic acumen. Over 12 years, he transformed the company from a $50 million domestic operation into a $250 million global leader through acquisitions, joint ventures, and innovative product development. His ability to navigate private equity transitions and align organizational strategies with market demands was pivotal to the company’s success.
During his tenure at FMC Corporation, John held various leadership roles, including Division Manager of the Marine Colloids Division and Managing Director of Litex A/S in Denmark. These positions highlight his skills in managing multinational operations, executing turnarounds, and driving innovation in specialty chemical markets.
John’s educational foundation includes an MBA from the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business and a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology. His early leadership experience as a platoon leader in the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division further honed his skills in decision-making, resilience, and team management.
Throughout his career, John has been driven by a passion for sharing his expertise and mentoring the next generation of leaders. Whether serving on boards, advising management, or leading global operations, he remains committed to empowering others with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. His vision, character, and global experience position him as a trusted advisor and strategic partner.
Character:
John Burrows is a resilient and ethical leader, consistently guided by integrity and a deep sense of responsibility. His passion for empowering others and sharing knowledge underscores his commitment to creating lasting value in every role he undertakes.
Knowledge:
With over 50 years of experience across diverse industries, John possesses unparalleled expertise in business strategy, operations, and global market dynamics. His ability to navigate complex challenges and drive innovation is rooted in his extensive international exposure and technical background.
Strategic:
John is a visionary strategist who excels at crafting and executing plans that deliver transformative growth and sustainable value. His track record of successful turnarounds, mergers, and acquisitions demonstrates his ability to align organizational goals with market opportunities.
Communication:
An accomplished communicator, John fosters collaboration and alignment among diverse teams and stakeholders. His mentoring approach and clarity of vision inspire trust and drive collective success in complex business environments.
