Lihong Yu
Founder and Chairwoman of PHT International, Lihong Yu established PHT in 1993 to provide exemplary service and products to the chemical industry. Originally from Ningbo, China, Lihong holds Bachelor degrees in both English Literature and American Culture & Society from Beijing Foreign Languages University. After spending many years as a sales manager at Sinochem, she founded PHT International. As a well-respected leader in the chemical industry, Lihong’s vision sets the path for PHT.
Lihong’s Story
Since our founding in 1993, PHT International has earned a reputation for being a reliable business partner, consistently going above and beyond for our customers. This underlying determination to become a trusted partner has become a core value of our company, and is the direct result of one woman’s vision. Founder, Lihong Yu’s unique set of experiences paved the way for our customer-centric culture. So while the company was founded in the 90s, our company’s inception began much earlier, starting with Lihong Yu’s personal experiences.
Born in Ningbo, China, Lihong Yu was raised during the Chinese Cultural Revolution. Yu’s parents were exiled when she was six years’ old, leaving her in the care of her grandparents. During this difficult period, Yu took on the responsibility of managing the household budget to ensure the entire family could be fed. She sought, purchased, and negotiated her way into stretching the limited income, and her drive became the key factor to both her, and her family’s success.
After reuniting with her parents and attending Beijing Foreign Studies University, she landed a supporting role at Sinochem Neheco, a Chinese conglomerate with expertise in the chemical and fertilizer industries. She used this position to watch, learn, and listen. When she felt she was ready, she asked for an opportunity to lead a negotiation. Once it was granted, there was no going back, and Yu went on to serve as a Sales Manager for a Sinochem branch based in Los Angeles.
During the early 1990s Yu saw a gap in the United States’ east coast, chemical market -- noticing they were missing out on the benefits of working with the far east. With intention, drive, and $5000, Yu set out to establish PHT International in 1993. Setting down roots in Charlotte, North Carolina, PHT became a pioneer in bridging the east-west gap, and delivering cost-effective, high-quality chemical products directly to western companies. Focused on supplying only the most high-quality products, Lihong Yu ensured every product and package upheld PHT’s commitment to integrity. Year over year, her reputation for quality and reliability grew, and PHT became the company it is today.
Her legacy of determination, drive, and integrity continues to move PHT forward. And each of our decisions are based on her resounding belief in the strengths of People, Honesty, and Trust.
Executive Leadership
J. Michael Rigsbee
Chief Financial Officer
J. Michael Rigsbee had spent over 25 years as a senior accountant and CFO before joining the PHT community. As our CFO, Mike heads our financial and operations departments, driving efficiencies and ensuring smooth operations at PHT.
Mark Witterholt
Head of Traditional Business
With his 30 plus years in the chemical industry, Mark has a broad network and boundless knowledge of the chemical industry, market trends, patent reviews, and new business development. Mark works to lead his team and implement growth driven initiatives in our Agro & Industrial business unit.
Dr. Uwe Steffan
General Manager, PHT Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.
Dr. Steffan brings many years of general management experience and a vast knowledge of research & development, contract research & manufacturing, patent evaluations, and process development of APIs, and fluorinated fine chemicals.
Irvin Zhou
General Manager, PHT Pharmaceutical Technology Ltd.
Irvin has many years experience as general manager of PHT Pharmaceutical Technology (previously Basilea Pharmaceutica China Ltd.). His immeasurable knowledge and dedication will help to expand PHT's R&D services and transform into a leading CRDMO organization.
Susan Huang
General Manager, PHT China
Susan came to PHT with decades of experience in chemical manufacturing and distribution, working originally for a multinational company. At PHT, she manages all of the Chinese operations, and is based out of Shanghai.
Jay T Shahani
PHT Consultant
Jay brings 35 years of manufacturing and business operation experience to PHT. As our consultant for Project and Research & Development teams, Jay brings his valuable insight into our manufacturing operations and processes.
