Michele Knox
Michele Knox is a seasoned sales leader with over 20 years of experience in the specialty chemicals industry, with expertise spanning personal care, color cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and household/industrial markets. As Regional Sales Manager at McCullough & Associates, she oversees sales growth and new formulation development in the Southeastern United States, driving customer success through innovative solutions and long-term partnerships. Michele has built a reputation for her ability to connect with clients, understand complex technical needs, and deliver strategies that fuel growth and innovation.
Her career began in chemical and materials sales, where she held key roles at Ashland Distribution, Peninsula Polymers, and Superior Materials, managing diverse portfolios including pigments, resins, additives, and polymers. She also worked as a Military Sales Engineer with Janco Electronics, supporting contract manufacturing and PCB design for the defense sector. Recognized for her contributions, Michele has earned industry accolades such as the Raytheon 4 Star Supplier Award and Dow Corning’s Highest Sales Growth Award.
Michele graduated Cum Laude from Franklin Pierce University with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and a minor in International Business and also holds an Associate Degree in Telecommunication Engineering. She is actively involved in the Society of Cosmetic Chemists and served as Treasurer for the Carolina Chapter, where she contributes to advancing innovation and collaboration within the cosmetics and personal care field. Known for her professionalism, integrity, and client-focused approach, Michele continues to be a trusted leader who blends technical expertise with strong relationship-building skills.
• NH Technical College- Associate's
• Pawsitively Rescue
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to kindness, hard work, and never being afraid to take a risk when the opportunity arises.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to work hard, never give up, and always strive to be the best version of yourself.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to embrace the excitement—cosmetic chemistry is a fun, innovative, and often underrated field that needs more passionate voices and talent.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges and opportunities in the field right now is navigating the evolving landscape of chemical components, where sustainability, safety, and innovation are driving demand for cleaner, more effective solutions.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are honesty, trust, and loyalty, as they form the foundation of strong relationships and lasting success.