Supported by investor Apax and following the acquisition and integration of Azelis Americas, formerly Koda Distribution Group, Azelis is now geared for the next phase of its growth and expansion.
The firm has welcomed Thijs Bakker as Chief Financial Officer. He will join the firm in September following the retirement of Martin Hollenhorst in August.
Bringing a wealth of experience in the finance and the chemical industry, Bakker has worked for more than 15 years for AkzoNobel in various finance roles in the Netherlands, US and across Asia Pacific. In his most recent position he was Finance Director, Marine & Protective Coatings at AkzoNobel, based in Singapore.
In addition to this appointment, further organisational changes in the Executive Committee will support Azelis’ development.
Laurent Nataf, CEO and President Asia Pacific
Following the firm's rapid growth in China and Japan, Azelis is strengthening its team in the region to further exploit the potential and accelerate development. As such, Laurent Nataf, currently Chief Operating Officer, is appointed CEO and President Asia Pacific, effective on 1 August.
Anna Bertona, COO EMEA
Anna Bertona, currently Chief Strategy and Principal Officer, will take the role of Chief Operating Officer EMEA, also effective on 1 August, to steer market teams in the region.
In a fourth new appointment, Michael James Roney, formerly Chief Executive of Bunzl, the international distribution and outsourcing group, has joined Azelis' board of directors.