Brenntag Specialties CEO to end contract in November 2025

Michael Friede, Chief Executive Officer Brenntag Specialties and member of the Board of Management of Brenntag SE, the global market leader in chemicals and ingredients distribution, has informed the Supervisory Board of Brenntag SE that he will not extend his contract which ends on March 31, 2026. He will leave the company on good terms on November 30, 2025. Michael Friede will take on new management responsibilities outside of Brenntag.

“I am very proud of what we have achieved at Brenntag Specialties in recent years. We have taken decisive steps to position our specialties business attractively and effectively in highly competitive markets. We have a clear roadmap and ambitious goals, which I will continue to pursue with full commitment until I leave the company, together with the outstanding Specialties team, my colleagues on the Brenntag Management Board, and our valued customers and suppliers,” said Friede.

The Supervisory Board has initiated the orderly succession process. Friede will continue to perform his duties in full until end of November and ensure an orderly transition to his successor.

Richard Ridinger, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Brenntag SE: “On behalf of the Supervisory Board, I would like to thank Michael Friede for his commitment to our company. With his expertise and leadership, he has played a decisive role in shaping the development of Brenntag Specialties in a challenging environment and strengthening the portfolio. Together with the Brenntag Management Board, he has driven forward the differentiated steering and market-oriented positioning of the Specialties division and laid the foundation for further profitable growth. We wish Michael Friede all the best for his personal and professional future.”