CEO Structure Evolves at DSM-Firmenich Following Merger Completion

DSM-Firmenich AG’s Board of Directors has revealed an update to the company’s CEO structure as it completes its merger with Firmenich International SA on 8 May 2023. The current Co-CEO structure, which encompasses each CEO holding additional CFO and COO responsibilities, will change effective 1 September 2023. Dimitri de Vreeze will take on the role of CEO, while Ralf Schmeitz will be appointed as CFO of DSM-Firmenich.

Geraldine Matchett, who played a crucial role in DSM’s strategic transformation and its merger with Firmenich, will leave the company on 1 September to further her career. Thomas Leysen, Chairman of DSM-Firmenich, thanked Matchett for her outstanding work as Co-CEO and CFO, and wished her success in her future endeavors.

Ralf Schmeitz brings an extensive background in Finance & Control, Treasury, Taxation, and M&A to his new role as CFO. Schmeitz began his career at PWC, held leadership roles at Hewlett Packard for seven years, and joined DSM in 2006. He has been a driving force behind DSM’s Finance transformation and significant portfolio changes during his tenure.

Schmeitz will join the Executive Committee of DSM-Firmenich as CFO on 1 September 2023. Leysen expressed confidence in Dimitri de Vreeze’s ability to lead the company into its next phase and welcomed Ralf Schmeitz to his new role as CFO.