PEOPLE ON THE MOVE
Industry Movers: Aker Biomarine, RB and Symrise
Krill oil specialists Aker Biomarine has moved to enhance its sustainability credentials with the hiring of Christina Ianssen as the firm’s new manager of sustainability and public affairs.
With a background in environmental policy and regulatory, Ianssen combines this with experience of technological innovation in industrial sectors like maritime and green build.
“It’s the opportunity of a lifetime for me to work in the sustainability department at a company that shares my values,” she says.
Prior to this move, Ianssen worked as a senior advisor for the environmental foundation Bellona. Other previous positions include a stint at Sterling PBES, an energy solution provider for the maritime industry.
Reckitt Benckiser appointment
Reckitt Benckiser (RB), makers of infant formula and supplements, also announces the appointment of Volker Kuhn as chief transformation officer as well as member of the company’s executive committee.
Kuhn will be responsible for driving productivity, new business solutions, strategy and further growth opportunities.
“I am pleased to be able to welcome Volker to RB. The Transformation function played a pivotal role in helping us design, launch and implement our new business strategy in February 2020,” says Laxman Narasimhan, chief executive officer.
“Over the last few months, the team has also supported our ability to strategically respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and will be key to enabling us to adapt and adjust our business strategy in light of the myriad of new opportunities positioning RB for sustainable growth.”
Kuhn arrives at RB from Proctor and Gamble (P&G), where he was the firm’s European vice-president for fabric care. He was also the P&G’s interim CEO during the transition of Duracell from P&G to Berkshire Hathaway in 2014-15.
Symrise changes
Finally, the Symrise Board elects Michael König as its new chairman succeeding Dr Winfried Steeger, who steps down to retire from the position.
König, who became a member of the Board, in 15 January this year, following the departure of Dr Thomas Rabe also elects Peter Vanacker as a new member.
"On behalf of the entire Supervisory Board I would like to thank Dr Steeger for his commitment and the trusting working relationship,” says König,
“At the same time, we are pleased to welcome Peter Vanacker to the Supervisory Board. With his many years of management experience both in Germany and internationally, he represents an outstanding addition to our Supervisory Board."
Dr Heinz-Jürgen Bertram, CEO of Symrise AG, adds, “During the past eight years, Dr Steeger was always available to support the Management Board with his extensive knowledge and expertise.
“On behalf of the entire company, I would like to express my sincere thanks for the excellent cooperation."
"At the same time, I look forward to working with Michael König and Peter Vanacker. They have both built impressive track records during their successful careers in different industries.
“Their strong interest in the long-term development of businesses, with a special focus on innovation and sustainability, will greatly benefit our company."