Mark Goldberg – Elkem ASA, Americas

For Mark Goldberg, serving as general counsel for Elkem ASA, Americas isn’t just about legal oversight—it’s about guiding the company through complex regulatory landscapes while fostering innovation in materials science. With a career spanning decades in corporate law, Goldberg has built a reputation for leading legal teams in highly technical industries.  

Mark Goldberg | Elkem ASA, Americas | General Counsel

At Elkem, Goldberg is responsible for legal matters in the Americas, primarily Elkem Silicones USA Corp. and Elkem Materials, Inc., the United States-based companies of Elkem ASA. Goldberg is crucial in ensuring the company’s United States strategic initiatives align with compliance and industry standards, particularly in developing long-term medical implants and next-generation electric vehicle technology. 

Goldberg’s career path was anything but ordinary. After earning his law degree, he initially worked at a Washington, D.C. trade association, specializing in environmental regulatory law and general in-house matters. His early experience handling regulations and contract negotiations set the stage for his transition into the corporate world. Over the years, he took on legal leadership roles in various technology-driven industries, each gaining more expertise in regulatory compliance and global business operations. 

“I’ve always been drawn to industries that push the boundaries of what’s possible,” Goldberg reflects. “Whether it’s advanced materials, new chemicals, medical innovations, or new energy solutions, I enjoy working at the intersection of law and technology.” 

His decision to join Elkem was driven by the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. With Elkem’s expansive work in silicones, silicon, and carbon solutions, he saw an opportunity to play a crucial role in shaping the future of multiple industries. 

Elkem is a multinational materials company specializing in silicon-based products and advanced silicone solutions. Headquartered in Norway, the company serves various industries, including healthcare, automotive, and electronics. Elkem aims to deliver sustainable, high-performance materials that drive technological progress. Its silicone expertise has positioned it as a key player in medical advancements and the growing EV sector. 

Elkem’s global presence means it operates in some of the world’s most competitive and highly regulated markets. The company’s extensive portfolio includes silicone elastomers, fluids and resins used in everything from consumer electronics and personal care products to renewable energy applications. Beyond innovation, Elkem has committed itself to environmental responsibility, actively reducing its carbon footprint through energy-efficient production processes and sustainable sourcing of raw materials. 

“As a global company, we have to ensure that our materials not only meet technical specifications but also comply with environmental and safety regulations in every market we operate in,” Goldberg explains to Vanguard. “That’s where legal strategy becomes critical.” 

Driving medical innovation 

One of Elkem’s most groundbreaking work areas is long-term implantable silicones, used in medical devices such as pacemakers, artificial joints, and neurostimulation devices. These materials must meet stringent biocompatibility standards while offering durability and flexibility. These products are manufactured in the United States; as such Goldberg is responsible for assessing liability risks and ensuring Elkem’s compliance with global regulatory frameworks, collaborating with its regulatory department to meet industry raw material supplier requirements. 

“Working in the medical sector presents unique challenges,” Goldberg explains. “We must navigate a complex web of international regulations and risk analyses while ensuring our materials meet the highest safety and performance standards. It’s a responsibility we take very seriously.” 

Beyond regulatory compliance, Goldberg also collaborates with business units to negotiate sales agreements with medical device manufacturers. His leadership helps facilitate sales of new products and technologies, ensuring that Elkem remains a trusted partner in the healthcare space. 

“Innovation in the medical space requires raw material suppliers like us to meet the ever-changing demands of our customers,” he says. “A strong legal foundation is essential to ensure that new technologies reach medical device manufacturers safely and efficiently.” 

Supporting the EV revolution 

As the automotive industry accelerates toward electrification, Elkem is at the forefront of supplying high-performance silicone and silicon solutions for EV batteries and components. Its materials improve thermal management, energy storage capacity and density, electrical insulation, and sealing—key battery safety and efficiency factors. Goldberg is pivotal in structuring United States-based agreements with global automakers and technology partners. 

“The EV market is evolving at an incredible pace, and our legal strategy has to be just as agile,” says Goldberg. “We’re working with companies at every stage of the supply chain, from battery and automobile manufacturers to OEMs, to ensure that our materials contribute to safer and more efficient electric vehicles.” 

One of the biggest challenges in the EV industry—and for the company as a whole—is maintaining supply chain resilience. With the growing demand for high-performance materials, Elkem must carefully manage its global logistics and sourcing operations. Goldberg is integral in contract negotiations with United States-based suppliers and customers, ensuring the company remains competitive and compliant in a rapidly changing marketplace. 

Elkem, like many companies, is grappling with significant uncertainty as tariffs continue to disrupt global trade patterns and business planning. Goldberg is leading some United States based initiatives at Elkem to optimize the company’s supply chain to manage the fluctuating import and export costs, shifting supply chains, and the threat of retaliatory measures by trading partners. These uncertain and changing variables have made it difficult for businesses to forecast expenses, set prices, and make long-term investment decisions. Industries reliant on international materials or markets—such as manufacturing, especially chemical manufacturing—are particularly vulnerable, facing rising costs and potential supply shortages. This environment of unpredictability has forced many firms to reconsider sourcing strategies, delay expansion plans, and build contingency reserves, all while navigating volatile market conditions and evolving regulatory landscapes.

But Goldberg says he’s up for the challenge.

A leader in legal and business strategy

Goldberg’s leadership extends beyond the legal department—he is a key advisor in Elkem’s United States based corporate strategy. His ability to bridge the gap between legal considerations and business goals has made him an integral part of the company’s United States based executive team.

“Our role as legal professionals isn’t just about mitigating risk,” he says. “It’s about enabling innovation. We’re here to help our teams push the boundaries of what’s possible while ensuring we operate responsibly and sustainably.”

Under his guidance, Elkem continues to expand its influence in critical industries, shaping the future of medical technology and electric mobility. As both a legal strategist and a champion for innovation, Mark Goldberg is helping Elkem navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving world.

Looking ahead, Goldberg sees immense potential for Elkem to solidify its industry leader position further. With advancements in material science driving new possibilities in healthcare, automotive, and sustainable technology, he remains focused on ensuring that Elkem stays ahead of the curve.

“As a company, we’re committed to pushing boundaries and setting new standards,” Goldberg says. “And from a legal perspective, my job is to ensure we do it correctly.”

With his leadership, Elkem is advancing material science and setting a benchmark for legal and regulatory excellence in the industry.