Former IMCD Managing Director Named OQEMA CEO
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OQEMA Group has appointed Lars Wallstein chief executive officer. He assumed the role July 1, joining Chief Operating Officer Philipp Junge and Chief Financial Officer Hartmut Kunz on the company’s executive leadership team.
Wallstein succeeded Patrick Barthels, who will support the transition for six months. Barthels is scheduled to become regional president of OQEMA’s Flavors & Fragrances division Jan. 1, 2027.
OQEMAWallstein brings more than 25 years of international leadership experience in chemical distribution and specialty chemicals. He most recently served as managing director at IMCD, with responsibility for Germany and several international markets.
During his tenure at IMCD, Wallstein led business-unit development, international team building, acquisitions and integrations. He also serves as president of the European Association of Chemical Distributors, or FECC.
“I am very much looking forward to this new role and the opportunity to help shape and develop OQEMA further,” Wallstein said. “The company’s culture and its consistent growth over recent years have made a lasting impression on me.”
“With Lars Wallstein, we are gaining a CEO who knows our industry inside out and is exceptionally well connected,” Barthels said. “He brings the perspective of both the producer and the distributor.”
OQEMA employs approximately 1,600 people at 54 locations in 26 countries. The European chemical distributor offers more than 15,000 products and provides services including procurement, product development, custom blending, logistics and recycling.
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