Thursday, July 3, 2025
AkzoNobel has confirmed the appointment of Fredrik Westin as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective January 1, 2026. Fredrik will succeed Maarten de Vries, who will complete his second four-year term as CFO and a member of the Board of Management. This transition forms part of AkzoNobel’s structured succession process.
Fredrik, a Swedish national aged 52, brings more than 25 years of international experience in the industrial and automotive sectors. His career has been marked by a proven track record in delivering business value, improving operational efficiency, simplifying organisations, and aligning closely with customer needs. Fredrik’s experience in leading financial operations spans major roles at global organisations such as Autoliv, Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology, and Johnson Controls. Since May 2020, he has served as CFO and Executive Vice-President at Autoliv, a leading automotive safety company listed in both the US and Europe.
Fredrik’s appointment is expected to further strengthen AkzoNobel’s position as a global leader in the paints and coatings industry. His extensive expertise in managing complex financial operations and driving profitability will be critical in guiding AkzoNobel through its next phase of growth.
Fredrik Westin’s Track Record and Leadership Approach
Fredrik Westin’s leadership has been characterised by fostering a performance-driven culture. He has consistently focused on operational efficiency, customer alignment, and delivering sustainable value across the organisations he has served. His background in the automotive and industrial sectors, along with his previous roles at major global companies, has equipped him with the necessary experience to oversee AkzoNobel’s financial strategies and objectives.
Commenting on Fredrik’s appointment, Ben Noteboom, Chair of AkzoNobel’s Supervisory Board, said: “Fredrik is a seasoned financial leader with a proven track record of enhancing profitability, even in challenging markets. His experience and insights will play an important role in driving operational efficiency and fostering sustainable growth across the organisation. I look forward to having him on board.”
Greg Poux-Guillaume, CEO of AkzoNobel, also expressed his enthusiasm for Fredrik’s appointment: “Maarten has been instrumental in reshaping AkzoNobel into a focused and high-performing paints and coatings company. He’s reinvented our finance function and implemented world-class systems, which have transformed AkzoNobel into a data-driven organisation. His dedication, leadership, and focus on value creation are recognised by all and will continue to fuel our company for the rest of his tenure. Fredrik is the perfect successor to deliver our mid-term targets and take the company to the next level of performance.”
Fredrik’s Vision for AkzoNobel’s Future
Fredrik Westin is looking forward to taking on the role of CFO at AkzoNobel, stating: “I’m honoured to join AkzoNobel, a great company with a clear strategy. I’m eager to work with Greg and the executive team to accelerate our transformation and help strengthen our performance.”
His appointment is seen as part of AkzoNobel’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its leadership team, ensuring the company is well-positioned for future growth in a competitive and ever-evolving industry.
Maarten de Vries’ Contributions and the Transition Process
Maarten de Vries, who has been instrumental in transforming the company’s finance function, will continue to serve as a member of the Board of Management until his retirement in April 2026. He will oversee the completion of the handover to Fredrik, ensuring a smooth and structured transition. During his tenure, Maarten has driven the company’s transformation into a focused, high-performing organisation. His leadership has significantly contributed to AkzoNobel’s reputation as a data-driven and innovative company, well-positioned for sustainable growth.
“Maarten has been instrumental in reshaping AkzoNobel into a focused and high-performing paints and coatings company. He’s reinvented our finance function and implemented world-class systems which have transformed AkzoNobel into a data-driven organisation. His dedication, leadership and focus on value creation are recognised by all and will continue to fuel our company for the rest of his tenure,” said Greg Poux-Guillaume.
The Company’s Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability
Since its establishment in 1792, AkzoNobel has been at the forefront of providing innovative paints and coatings solutions that colour people’s lives and protect what matters most. The company’s world-class portfolio of brands – including Dulux, International, Sikkens, and Interpon – is trusted by customers across the globe. AkzoNobel operates in more than 150 countries, and its products are used to enhance and sustain everyday life.
As a pioneer in the industry, the company is dedicated to providing sustainable solutions that not only preserve the best of what we have today but also help build a better tomorrow. The company’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its continuous efforts to reduce environmental impact and improve the quality of life through its wide range of products.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter for the company
Fredrik’s appointment represents an exciting new chapter for AkzoNobel. His extensive experience and expertise in financial leadership will support the company as it continues to expand its presence and innovation within the paints and coatings sector. With a clear strategy in place, AkzoNobel is poised for continued success and growth under his leadership.
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