Evonik CEO Kullmann to take extended leave after surgery

Christian Kullmann, the chief executive of German chemical company Evonik, will be out of office for an extended period after undergoing a significant, unplanned surgery. The company announced that Claus Rettig, who currently heads Evonik's Asia business, will step in to lead the company on an interim basis.

Rettig, 66, is set to join Evonik's executive board on September 1, 2026, and has been appointed deputy chairman. This is not the first time Rettig has stepped into a crucial role; he temporarily managed the finance department last summer. His appointment as interim CEO is intended to ensure continuity in leadership during Kullmann's recovery.

The news of Kullmann's surgery and subsequent leave caused a brief dip in Evonik's stock price, with shares trading one percent lower. However, Bernd Tönjes, the chairman of Evonik's supervisory board, conveyed a message of support and optimism. "We are all glad and relieved that Christian Kullmann has successfully undergone his surgery and wish him a speedy recovery from the bottom of our hearts," Tönjes stated. He added that the board fully expects Kullmann to resume his duties after rehabilitation.