Robert Johns has 30 years of experience in the global commercialization of specialty materials.

He is the managing principle of Summit Growth Solutions, LLC, a consultancy & advisory service focused to help firms find new, innovative and profitable growth in current and emerging businesses. Clients leverage the insights of a versatile and decisive leader with broad business-to-business experience in global and domestic markets. As a trusted advisor he listens to understand customer & client needs, and asks compelling questions that help organizations put issues into perspective and make robust decisions that lead to financial success.

During his 30-year career with Dow Corning Corporation, Mr. Johns served in a variety of global leadership positions in industries including electronics, solar, chemicals, defense, petroleum and other specialty material segments. He is a strong advocate of the Planned Innovation^® management system, and used these tools in a number of professional and leadership positions.

As Global Director of New Business Programs in the Advanced Technologies & Ventures Business, he led teams to collaborate with federal congressional delegations and state economic development stakeholders to build new venture businesses within Dow Corning.  Working in Shanghai, China during 2007-2008 he made key contributions refocusing strategies and resources to target the growing middle market and led a reengineering of the commercial organization for improved productivity and enhanced customer satisfaction. His education includes a BBA from Western Michigan University, and he is an alumnus of the Executive Development Program at Northwestern University,  Kellogg School.