THE WHAT? DSM-Firmenich’s Board of Directors has unanimously proposed independent director Richard Ridinger as its next Chairman, succeeding Thomas Leysen, who has decided to retire following the completion of the DSM-Firmenich merger and establishment of the group’s strategic direction.
THE DETAILS Ridinger’s appointment will be put to shareholders at an Extraordinary General Meeting on October 19, 2026. He brings executive and board-level experience spanning pharmaceuticals, home and personal care, and nutrition and health, as well as existing knowledge of DSM-Firmenich through his role as an independent director. Leysen will step down once his successor is elected, having chaired the company through its formation and integration. The leadership transition comes as DSM-Firmenich moves beyond its post-merger integration phase, with the planned sale of its Animal Nutrition & Health business nearing completion, a refreshed Executive Committee in place and its margin improvement programme underway.
THE WHY? The proposed appointment marks a transition from integration to execution for DSM-Firmenich. Ridinger’s experience in innovation-led businesses, including personal care, and his familiarity with the group are intended to provide continuity as DSM-Firmenich focuses on delivering its strategy, improving margins and driving its next phase of growth.
Source: Global Newswire
