The American Cleaning Institute (ACI) announced that Jennifer Abril, currently president and CEO of SOCMA – The Society of Chemical Manufacturers & Affiliates – will become ACI’s new president and chief executive officer, effective August 11.

Abril’s appointment was approved by ACI’s Board of Directors following an extensive search conducted by a Board search committee and the leading global executive recruitment firm, Korn Ferry.

“Jennifer Abril is the ideal person to lead ACI in its next chapter,” says ACI board chair Suzanne Carroll, senior vice president, Consumer and Life Sciences, Nouryon. “The Board was impressed not only with her deep experience in advocacy and policy, regulatory engagement, and trade association leadership, but also with the passion and dedication Jennifer has exhibited throughout her 25+ year career in the regulatory and policy arena. This, plus her experience within the chemical sector, will enable her to hit the ground running to lead ACI.

“This organization is a gold standard among business trade associations and continues to represent the cleaning product supply chain at a very high level. The board is now very excited to see how Jennifer will take ACI to even greater heights.”

Abril has led SOCMA since 2016, showcasing SOCMA’s position as the primary hub for the specialty chemicals sector. Under her leadership, SOCMA refreshed its programming and offered new opportunities to develop business partnerships and build industry connections across the supply chain. She previously served as the association’s director of Performance Improvement between 2006-2008 and was responsible for the development and implementation of ChemStewards.

Prior to serving as SOCMA’s leader, Abril was president of the International Fragrance Association, North America from 2008-2016. She earned a B.A. in International Studies from The American University and holds a M.S. in Management from the University of Maryland, University College.

“It is a privilege to join the American Cleaning Institute, an organization with a strong legacy and critical mission,” says Abril. “The cleaning product supply chain is essential to public health, quality of life and our nation’s economy. From advancing sustainability to championing science-based policy, ACI is at the forefront of issues that touch every household. I’m thrilled to work with Team ACI and its exceptional members to further elevate the industry’s impact.”

ACI will continue to be led by co-interim CEOs Douglas Troutman and Korie Traver through August 11.

“Doug and Korie have done a phenomenal job of leading ACI since December 2024, continuing to build the staff while addressing a flurry of legislative, regulatory and marketplace challenges, never missing a beat when it comes to delivering for our member companies,” adds Carroll.

Previous ACI president and CEO Melissa Hockstad led ACI for nearly eight years prior to joining the Consumer Brands Association as its president and CEO in January 2025.