Brenntag appoints Jens Birgersson as its new CEO
Birgersson will take over the role from Dr. Christian Kohlpaintner, who will step down on August 31, 2025, following his decision not to renew his contract.
GERMANY – Brenntag, a German chemical distribution company, has named Jen Birgersson as the new CEO, effective September 1, 2025.
Birgersson will take over the role from Dr. Christian Kohlpaintner, who will step down on August 31, 2025, following his decision not to renew his contract.
His leadership is expected to steer Brenntag through evolving industry challenges, ensuring continued success in the chemical distribution sector.
Richard Ridinger, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Brenntag SE, stated, “Jens has demonstrated that he can deliver performance gains in challenging economic circumstances and drive complex transformation processes in global, market-leading companies.”
“His mission at Brenntag will be to further improve the company’s operational performance, execute its growth strategy and continue Brenntag’s ambitious transformation as a key prerequisite for sustainable growth and long-term success.”
Birgersson, a seasoned executive with extensive leadership experience, previously served as President and CEO of Rockwool Group, a Danish insulation specialist, where he led the company for nine years.
In addition, he has held various leadership roles in international market-leading companies, including Swiss conglomerate ABB, further solidifying his expertise in global business operations
Recently, Brenntag reported a resilient Q1FY25 performance amid a persistently challenging business environment, with operating gross profit rising to EUR 1,019.5 million, an increase of 2.1% compared to the same period last year, and operating EBITA reaching EUR 264.3 million(USD 299.2 million).
Although free cash flow declined by 6.8% to EUR 163.3 million(USD 184.9 million) and earnings per share were slightly lower at EUR 0.93(USD 1.04).
The company maintained its operating EBITA guidance for the full year between EUR 1.1 billion(USD 1.245 billion) and EUR 1.3 billion(USD 1.45 billion), underscoring its commitment to disciplined financial management and operational efficiency.
Meanwhile, the company announced the expansion of its strategic collaboration with Parkim Fragrance House, Turkey’s leading fragrance manufacturer.
According to the company, Brenntag will now promote Parkim’s innovative fragrances in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland following their successful collaboration in the Nordics.
Brenntag will provide a selection of Parkim’s premium extracts, essential oils, and upcycled ingredients designed for the beauty and care industry.
This portfolio features floral extracts, such as Rose Damascena, as well as warm scents like Turkish coffee and tobacco absolute, and fresh citrus oils from Turkish lemons.
According to Parkim, sustainable ingredients derived from by-products of turpentine, citrus, and rose will support eco-friendly formulations, providing Nordic beauty and care brands with high-quality, innovative, and authentic fragrance components.
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