Nobian, a leading company in Salt, Essential Chemicals and Energy Storage in Western Europe, today announces that its Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Michael Pontzen, will hand over the CFO role to his successor, Thorsten Krekels, as of 1 February 2026, to support its main shareholder Carlyle on a new project. Carlye’s request is a recognition of Michael Pontzen’s broad industry and finance experience.

Thorsten Krekels, currently Group Controller and Managing Director Germany at Nobian, has been appointed as CFO and member of the Nobian leadership team, effective February 1, 2026. He has a deep knowledge of our business, having previously served in several senior finance roles within former AkzoNobel and Nouryon since 1999 and as interim CFO at Nobian. The hand-over to Thorsten Krekels is a strong endorsement of the leadership and solid financial organization that we have built at Nobian and is fully supported by Carlyle. 

The agreed handover process will ensure continuity of all finance and IM duties. The board and leadership team are fully engaged. The finance leadership will support Thorsten in his new role to ensure a smooth transition. 

Michael Koenig, Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman of the Board of Nobian, said: "We are grateful for Michael’s contributions to Nobian as our CFO. We are proud that his expertise is sought after by our shareholder. This request from Carlyle is a strong endorsement of the leadership and financial capability we have built at Nobian. At the same time, we are delighted to welcome Thorsten Krekels to our leadership team. We are confident that with his deep financial knowledge and his involvement with our business since 1999 we will maintain our financial strength.”

Thorsten Krekels said: “I am honored to take on the role of CFO. My priority is to ensure continuity, uphold rigorous financial controls and financial performance, and to support Nobian’s strategic and long-term growth objectives while maintaining clear communication with all financial stakeholders.” 

Michael Pontzen said: ““The Nobian team warmly welcomed me some 2,5 years ago for which I am still very grateful. I am leaving now earlier than planned to join Carlyle in a new venture, but given the strength of the people and the robustness of the business, I have all the confidence that Nobian will come out of the current challenging times even stronger.”