DSM-Firmenich AG’s Board of Directors announces significant changes to the company’s CEO structure as it finalizes its merger with Firmenich International SA on 8 May 2023. The current Co-CEO arrangement, which includes each CEO holding additional CFO and COO responsibilities, will be altered effective 1 September 2023. Dimitri de Vreeze will serve as the new CEO, while Ralf Schmeitz will step into the role of CFO for DSM-Firmenich.
Geraldine Matchett, who contributed greatly to DSM’s strategic transformation and the merger with Firmenich, will depart the company on 1 September to further her career. Thomas Leysen, Chairman of DSM-Firmenich, expressed his appreciation for Matchett’s exemplary work as Co-CEO and CFO and wished her success in her future endeavors.
Ralf Schmeitz, who brings a wealth of experience in Finance & Control, Treasury, Taxation, and M&A to his new position, will join DSM-Firmenich’s Executive Committee as CFO on 1 September 2023. Schmeitz began his career at PWC, then held various leadership roles at Hewlett Packard for seven years before joining DSM in 2006.
During his time at DSM, Schmeitz played a vital role in driving the company’s Finance transformation and supporting DSM’s significant portfolio changes. Leysen expressed his confidence in Dimitri de Vreeze’s ability to lead the company and welcomed Ralf Schmeitz to his new role as CFO.
As DSM-Firmenich embarks on a new chapter after the successful merger, the updated leadership structure is expected to benefit the company and help it navigate future challenges and opportunities.
