DSM-Firmenich: Richard Ridinger elected chairman, succeeds Thomas Leysen
Shareholders of the Swiss group met in extraordinary general assembly on October 19, 2026, and approved the succession of Thomas Leysen, who left the board of directors to retire. This election had been announced by the company on August 18.
An independent director since 2023 takes the helm of the board
Richard Ridinger has been serving on the board of directors of DSM-Firmenich since 2023, in his capacity as an independent member. In addition to the chairmanship of the board, he was also elected a member of the remuneration committee.
According to the company, he has general management and board experience in pharmaceuticals, home care and personal care products, as well as nutrition and health. The group also highlights his knowledge of the company, its strategy and its stakeholders.
The announcement was published as an ad hoc disclosure, in accordance with Article 53 of the listing regulations. Detailed results of the assembly votes are available on the company's website.
The board salutes its predecessor and reaffirms the pursuit of its strategy
In the press release, the board of directors states that it looks forward to working with its new chairman while the group continues the execution of its strategy. It also expressed its gratitude to the outgoing chairman for his work during his term.
DSM-Firmenich, a producer of flavors, fragrances and nutritional ingredients, is a Swiss company listed on Euronext Amsterdam and the SIX Swiss Exchange. The group operates in nearly 60 countries and employs approximately 21,000 employees.
Its continuing operations, following the divestiture of the Animal Nutrition & Health business, generate revenue of more than 9 billion euros.
