Barentz appoints Derk Jan Terhorst as new CEO

Barentz, a leading global specialty ingredients solutions provider, has appointed Derk Jan Terhorst Group Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 January 2025, who will take over from Terry Hill who served as Interim CEO since May 2024.

The company’s Tuesday press release shares that Derk Jan brings a wealth of experience to the role, having been with Barentz for more than three years as Group CFO. During this time, Derk Jan demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision, playing a key role in formulating Barentz strategy and driving other important initiatives, the company said in the press release. Prior to joining Barentz, Derk Jan held senior management positions in Ahold Delhaize and Tony’s Chocolonely, gaining significant expertise in international financial management, with experience spanning Europe and the USA, the company said.

Ben Osnabrug, Partner at Cinven and member of Barentz Supervisory Board, said: “After a rigorous selection process, we are confident that Derk Jan is the ideal leader to guide Barentz into its next phase of growth. His deep understanding of our business and proven ability to deliver results will ensure a seamless transition and will help us unlock new opportunities going forward. Having collaborated closely with the Board in recent years, we have every confidence that Derk Jan will ensure the continued success of Barentz while driving forward our strategic ambitions. I would also like to thank Terry for his service as Interim CEO and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”

Derk Jan, the incoming CEO, said: “I am honoured to take on this role and continue working alongside our talented teams around the world. Barentz has built an impressive legacy, and I believe our winning strategy – focusing on best-in-class principal management, sales acceleration, and operational excellence – positions us well for an exciting future. The hard work, dedication, and loyalty of our global workforce are the cornerstones of our success. I look forward to building on our strong foundations and leading Barentz through the next chapter of growth, as we strive to become a global leader in the specialty ingredients sector.”

A new CFO has been selected and will start on 1 May, 2025. Until then, Derk Jan will continue to assume CFO responsibilities, the company added.