Dsm-firmenich Proposes New Chair as Thomas Leysen Announces Retirement

Thomas Leysen, the current Chair of the Board of Directors at Dsm-firmenich, has announced his retirement from the role. The board has proposed Richard Ridinger, an Independent Director of the company, as his successor. Leysen will step down from his position once Ridinger has been elected by the shareholders, which is expected to take place on 19 October.

## Background on Leysen's Tenure Leysen has been instrumental in shaping Dsm-firmenich into a strong and resilient organisation, providing steady guidance through a period of significant change and challenging market conditions. He has been praised for his leadership, with the company stating that he has been a key figure in its development.

## Ridinger's Proposed Appointment Ridinger has been unanimously proposed by the board to take on the role of Chair. He has executive and board-level experience in global, innovation-led businesses across various industries, including pharma, home care, personal care, nutrition, and health. According to the company, Ridinger has a deep understanding of Dsm-firmenich and is well-equipped to help bring the company to the next level.

## Future Plans for Dsm-firmenich With Dsm-firmenich now fully operating as one company, the portfolio tuning nearing completion, and the margin improvement programme well underway, Leysen believes that it is an opportune moment to hand over to a new chair. Ridinger has expressed his honour at being trusted by the board and looks forward to shaping the company's next chapter together with the board and the Executive Committee.