Satellites launch Minerals Technologies on growth trajectory; research legacy provides strong base. (Company Profile)

Research legacy provides strong base

"At least once a month, I try to do something I'll remember for the rest of my life," says Jean-Paul Valles, CEO of Minerals Technologies (MinTech)--the new specialty minerals spinoff from drug giant Pfizer (New York). The next few years should be crowded with memorable experiences as he guides a new company through a period of rapid expansion. But Valles, 56, expects to retire before he reaches 65. "I don't want to work into the next millennium," he says.

With the spinoff accomplished on Oct. 26, 1992, and Pfizer divesting its remaining holdings on April 6, Valles has had to devote considerable time and energy to grueling roadshows introducing his company to potential investors. Despite the diversion of a nonstop travel schedule, the new company's 1992 results were impressive: 10% revenue growth, 28% net income growth, and 32% operating income growth. Those figures seem even more remarkable given that MinTech's two biggest markets are the depressed pulp-and-paper and steel markets. "It's a good thing I can fall asleep on a plane, because I haven't had much chance to sleep at …