Arlanxeo CEO Chen to retire, van Santbrink to take helm

THE HAGUE, Netherlands—Arlanxeo's Donald Chen will retire from his role as CEO of the Dutch-based synthetic rubber producer. Taking his place, beginning this October, will be Stephan van Santbrink.

Chen will remain involved in a senior advisory capacity over the next six months, according to Arlanxeo, and will "ensure a smooth transition of leadership and the continuation of important strategic projects" until Feb. 1, 2024.

Chen took the helm at Arlanxeo in 2019 and steered the business through significant market challenges, including during the global COVID-19 pandemic.

"On behalf of the entire Shareholders' Committee, I would like to thank Donald for his leadership and dedication," said Olivier Thorel, chairman of the Arlanxeo Shareholders' Committee and senior vice president of chemicals, Saudi Aramco Oil Company. "… (Chen) laid the foundation for the long-term success of our business. We wish him the very best to him and his family for the future."

Van Santbrink has been a member of Saudi Aramco-owned Arlanxeo's non-executive board since March 2023. He will be based in the Hague and joins Arlanxeo from Saudi Aramco, where he was the downstream chief financial officer, head of strategy and business support.

The new CEO has 25 years of experience in the oil and gas industry, from both Aramco and Shell. Van Santbrink also is currently an "active board/committee member" of leading companies such as Sabic, Motiva Enterprises, Satorp and Aramco Trading.

The Dutch national holds degrees in law and economics from the University of Amsterdam and an MBA from the Rotterdam School of Management.

Rubber News staff contributed to this report.