Brenntag CEO: Who Is the Current CEO of Brenntag SE?
July 2, 2025
Brenntag CEO: Who Is the Current CEO of Brenntag SE?
The Brenntag CEO leads the world’s largest chemical and ingredients distributor. As of 2025, Christian Kohlpaintner is CEO of Brenntag SE, focusing on strategic growth, digitalization, and sustainability. With a background in the chemical sector, Kohlpaintner is transforming Brenntag into a more agile and customer-focused distribution leader.
Who is the current CEO of Brenntag?
Christian Kohlpaintner has been the CEO of Brenntag since 2020.
What is Christian Kohlpaintner’s background?
He holds a PhD in chemistry and has extensive leadership experience at companies like Clariant and BASF, with expertise in global chemical operations and innovation.
What are Christian Kohlpaintner’s achievements so far?
Launched the Brenntag Essentials and Brenntag Specialties divisions
Accelerated digital tools for customers and suppliers
Strengthened sustainability initiatives
Improved global supply chain resilience
Increased shareholder returns and efficiency
How does Christian Kohlpaintner’s leadership style stand out?
Kohlpaintner focuses on empowering teams, simplifying structures, and driving a culture of continuous improvement and customer proximity.
Brenntag at a Glance
Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
Founded | 1874 |
Headquarters | Essen, Germany |
Employees | Approx. 17,500 |
Products | Chemical and ingredient distribution |
Website |
What is Brenntag’s strategy under Christian Kohlpaintner?
Brenntag is working to become a more digital, sustainable, and globally integrated partner to the chemical industry, with clear targets for carbon neutrality and a strong innovation roadmap.
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FAQs
Who is Brenntag’s current CEO?
Christian Kohlpaintner.
When did he become CEO?
In 2020.
What is Brenntag’s focus under Kohlpaintner?
Digital innovation, sustainability, and growth.
Where is Brenntag headquartered?
Essen, Germany.
How many people work for Brenntag?
About 17,500 worldwide.
How is Brenntag improving sustainability?
By investing in green logistics, energy efficiency, and circular solutions.
What makes Christian Kohlpaintner’s leadership unique?
A scientific foundation combined with a global, customer-centric vision.
Final Thoughts
Christian Kohlpaintner is positioning Brenntag to thrive as a modern, sustainable distribution leader.
Additional Insights
Under Kohlpaintner, Brenntag has expanded its global partnerships with specialty chemical producers, developed digital marketplaces to simplify customer ordering, and invested in employee training programs to build future-ready skills. Brenntag is also exploring strategic acquisitions to grow in emerging markets and reinforce its leadership in sustainable distribution. These initiatives show a commitment to staying ahead of industry disruption while creating long-term value.