Lonza appoints new CEO

The Board of Directors of Lonza elected Richard Ridinger as the new CEO of the company. Ridinger will assume office on May 1 this, and will replace Rolf Soiron, who was acting CEO ad interim since the end of January. The 53 year-old German national has extensive industrial leadership experience. “Richard Ridinger could be a person who grew up with Lonza”, said Rolf Soiron. “He is a chemical engineer who knows our industries, customers and products. With Richard Ridinger, we were not only able to attract a man of action and team player, but also a winning personality.” Ridinger has also held numerous functions at two other companies: Henkel for 14 years and Cognis for 11. As CEO of Lonza, Ridinger’s responsibilities will include strengthening the company’s market position in relevant markets, strengthening competitive capabilities and improving productivity in critical areas. (April 3, 2012)