German speciality chemical maker BYK has appointed Dr. Michael Schmidt as chief technical officer, and global head of research and development.
In his new role, Schmidt will work closely with all BYK business units and external innovation ecosystems to develop differentiating and value-adding additive solutions.
In particular, he will focus on driving forward sustainable product and process innovation, digital transformation in R&D, and translating regulatory requirements into innovative products.
Schmidt brings with him an impressive international career in Asia and extensive experience in research and development, in production and engineering, and in various commercial functions
He began his career at Bayer in 2001 after completing his PhD in polymer science.
In 2021, he was awarded an advisory professorship at Donghua University in Shanghai, China.
After holding various management positions in Germany and abroad, he was appointed Global Head of Innovation for the Thermoplastic Polyurethane Business Unit at Covestro in 2023.
“His extensive international experience and profound understanding of global markets, innovative research and sustainable development, and digitalization make him the ideal person for this key position,” said Dr. Jörg Hinnerwisch, Division President of BYK.
“We are confident that he will play an important part in driving forward our innovation strategy and further strengthening our market position.”
Earlier this year, BYK has launched its own range of additives for personal care and beauty cosmetics that was previously marketed by sister company Eckart.
“I am very much looking forward to this new role and to working with the excellent teams in Germany and abroad,” said Schmidt.
“Together, we will work to further strengthen BYK’s global innovative strength and develop forward-looking solutions for tomorrow’s challenges.”
