Denise Rutherford, Ph.D., CDI.D™, appointed to Chief Technology and Innovation Officer at Velcro Companies
Congratulations to Denise on her new role as Chief Technology and Innovation Officer at Velcro Companies. She earned her CDI.D™ designation from Corporate Directors International, having completed the Board Certification Program at ACE LLC.
ACE LLC Announces the Appointment of ACE Graduate, Denise Rutherford, Ph.D., CDI.D™, to Chief Technology and Innovation Officer at Velcro Companies.
Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA May 28, 2025 – ACE LLC is pleased to announce that Denise R. Rutherford, Ph.D. appointed to Chief Technology and Innovation Officer at Velcro Companies.
Velcro Companies recently announced the appointment of Denise R. Rutherford, Ph.D. as Chief Technology and Innovation Officer. A globally recognized business leader, scientist, and advocate for innovation and inclusion, Denise has more than three decades of experience in driving transformation and sustainable growth across international markets. In her role as CTIO, she will lead global R&D and sustainability initiatives, accelerating product advancements across healthcare, consumer, and industrial sectors.
Previously, Denise held multiple executive roles at 3MCompany, including Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, where she led global communications, government affairs, and sustainability strategies. She served as the first woman appointed as President of 3M Greater China and of 3M Japan, and held senior leadership roles in other geographies including Latin America and Europe. Beyond corporate leadership, Denise is a champion for diversity in STEM, business, and manufacturing, and has served on multiple industry boards. A distinguished inventor with 14 U.S. patents, she is board-certified in corporate governance and has been honored for her contributions to leadership and innovation.
About Velcro Companies
Velcro IP Holdings LLC, trading as Velcro Companies and commonly referred to as Velcro, is a British privately held company, founded by Swiss electrical engineer George de Mestral in the 1950s. It is the original manufacturer of hook-and-loop fasteners, which de Mestral invented.
We are more than the maker of the Original hook and loop fastener. We are a global brand and company that prioritizes customers and quality from top to bottom.
Learn more about the Velcro Companies here.
About Denise:
Accomplished C-Suite executive for 3M Company with over 30 years of experience. COVID spokesperson for 3M. Trusted leader and the first woman appointed President of 3M Greater China Area and to 3M Japan. Head of subsidiaries of up to $3B in sales and 8,000 employees, responsible for local P&L, strategy, and operations. Led market expansion as global Vice President of 3M Aerospace with two acquisitions and new products for composite aircraft and with improved customer-centric approach of nearly $1B sales in market. Skilled in managing diverse product life cycles, ranging from aerospace specifications to fast moving consumer goods.
Experienced in environmental stewardship, ESG initiatives, and public affairs. Tapped to represent 3M at congressional hearing on PFAS materials. Catalyst of new approach to corporate brand campaign to increase 3M’s awareness and favorability. Life-long champion for women and diversity. Scientist with Ph.D. in Chemistry and co-inventor on 14 U.S. patents who rose through corporate ranks from individual researcher to C-Suite executive.
Congratulations to Velcro Companies for appointing Denise as your Chief Technology and Innovation Officer. We know she will bring value to your organization.