Christian Baier, chief financial officer of Covestro AG, has informed the chairman of the supervisory board that he will not renew his contract and will leave the company upon the expiration of his term in September 2026 at his own request. By communicating his decision well in advance, Baier aims to support an orderly search for a successor.

Dr. Richard Pott, chairman of the supervisory board, acknowledged the decision with regret and said the company will initiate the succession process in due course.

Until his departure, Baier will continue to perform his duties as chief financial officer in full. He has served as a member of Covestro’s board of management since October 2023 and is responsible for accounting, controlling and finance among other areas.

“We thank Christian Baier for his outstanding commitment over the past years,” Pott said. “He played a key role in guiding Covestro through an important phase in its history, securing the strategic partnership with XRG and initiating the company’s transformation.”

Dr. Markus Steilemann, CEO of Covestro, said Baier joined the company during a period of change and contributed to advancing its Sustainable Future strategy, including negotiations related to the strategic partnership with XRG.

Baier said Covestro is well positioned for long-term growth following the partnership with XRG, the capital increase and the implementation phase of the company’s transformation.

This leadership transition reflects broader shifts tied to corporate strategy and long-term planning across the global paint and coatings supply chain. Learn more about personnel announcements.