Jon Stephens

Jon Stephens is the president of Avangard Innovative’s (AI) Natura PCR division, the manufacturing business unit producing post-consumer resins (PCR). He is responsible for the business strategy, marketing, sales and operations for one of the largest polyethylene film grade PCR manufacturing facilities in the Americas. Stephens has more than 20 years of experience in the plastics recycling industry. He is a recognized industry leader in plastics materials processing, recycling and waste optimization, and commodities marketing. During his 22-year tenure with Avangard Innovative, Stephens has held several marketing and commercial leadership roles. In 2007, he took on the role of vice president and later executive vice president of commercial business operations. During that time, Stephens began developing the concept, feedstock formulations and technology needs for Natura PCR. In 2018, he became COO of AI, navigating the company through the lowest commodity markets in 10 years for plastics and paper, while maintaining profitability and increasing the company market position for PCR.

Stephens is involved in many industry and non-profit organizations in his pursuit of environmental and sustainability excellence. He has served on the board of directors for the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR), Keep Texas Beautiful and the Recycling Committee for the PLASTICS association.

Stephens holds a degree in biology and business from Sam Houston State University. He is passionate about our environment and believes we all play a role in preserving it for generations to come. He is a true conservationist and outdoorsman.