AMSTERDAM, the Netherlands – AkzoNobel CEO Ton Büchner is expected to return to work by the end of the year, according to the company’s board. Büchner has been on a temporary leave of absence since mid-September when he was diagnosed with “temporary fatigue.”

The company's arrangements to accommodate Büchner 's absence will remain in place. CFO Keith Nichols will continue to be the first point of contact and coordinator for the Executive Committee, while Antony Burgmans, member of the Supervisory Board, will remain on hand to offer advice and support.

Leif Darner, a member of the company’s supervisory board, will step down in April 2013 at the company’s annual general meeting. Conrad Keijzer, current Managing Director of AkzoNobel Industrial Coatings, will succeed Darner in his responsibilities for Performance Coatings. Keijzer will join the Executive Committee on January 1, 2013, ensuring a smooth transition.

In addition, Werner Fuhrmann, current Executive Committee member responsible for Supply Chain and Sourcing, and also responsible for the Specialty Chemicals business area on an interim basis, will officially become the Executive Committee member responsible for Specialty Chemicals.