Renk proposes Klaus Richter as chairman of supervisory board

Renk proposes Klaus Richter as chairman of supervisory board

The Altana Group, a specialty chemicals company, has announced leadership changes within its supervisory board. Prof. Dr. Frank Richter, who joined the supervisory board in May 2020, has been elected as the new chairman, succeeding Dr. Matthias L. Wolfgruber. Dr. Wolfgruber, who previously served as Altana’s CEO and chaired the supervisory board since May 2020, stepped down due to age-related term limits after joining the board in March 2016. The transition follows a structured succession plan, with the company expressing gratitude for Dr. Wolfgruber’s contributions during his tenure.

In addition to Richter’s appointment, Ruud Joosten, chairman of the Executive Board of the Royal Bam Group since 2020, was newly elected to Altana's supervisory board. Ulrich Gajewiak and Dr. Susanne Klatten continue serving as deputy chairwomen. Martin Babilas, Altana’s CEO, highlighted Richter’s industry expertise and Joosten’s leadership experience as valuable additions, emphasizing the board’s commitment to strategic continuity. Richter, an industrial engineer and former managing director of SKion, stated his focus will be on fostering collaboration and supporting Altana’s long-term growth.

The changes reflect Altana’s governance framework, which prioritizes experienced leadership to navigate market dynamics in the specialty chemicals sector. No further details on operational impacts were disclosed in the announcement.

According to the company announcement, the leadership changes were implemented to ensure strategic continuity.