Pete Tonsager is an initiative-taking and purposeful executive with over 20 years of experience in global sales and marketing management. With a strong record in specialty chemical, polymer products, and OEM medical device components, Pete has consistently demonstrated his ability to lead high-performing teams and drive significant revenue growth. His leadership has spanned teams of up to 30 direct reports and budgets ranging from $50 to $200 million, reflecting his capacity to deliver exceptional performance in highly regulated and competitive international environments.

Currently serving as the Sales Director at MGK/Sumitomo Chemical since 2014, Pete has directed a team of B2B sales managers operating in a complex, EPA-regulated, and technical sales environment. The customers and markets served span the globe which aligns with Pete’s passion for learning about new cultures and their history. As a member of the Sumitomo Chemical family of Companies, Pete has enjoyed learning about SCC’s over 400-year history as well as MGK’s 100 years of company history.

Pete’s commitment to community service is evident through his past roles on the Board of Directors for the House of Charity in Minneapolis, Member of the Board of the Waconia Parks & Recreation Department, and a presenter role at the 2018 Academy of International Business Annual Meeting.

In his spare time Pete enjoys travel with an emphasis on nature, history, and food.  Having visited Japan multiple times, from Hokkaido in the North to Nagasaki in the South, Pete has found every region fascinating and welcoming.  If you have international travel tips or a “favorite spot” that you would like to share, please feel free to pass it along.  When not traveling, you will find Pete either doing home improvement projects or spending time outside either walking or bicycling, typically with camera in hand.

Pete holds a BS in Political Science with a minor in International Studies from the University of Minnesota - Duluth and has pursued professional development in finance, global product protection, and sales skills. He willingly brings his multifaceted experience, strategic vision, and community focus board of JASM.