For paints and coatings companies, Erwin and Ruud bring a powerful combination of technical, commercial, and regulatory expertise. They can help launch innovative products more quickly and successfully, while reducing risks associated with market fluctuations and regulatory changes.
The ChemQuest Group, a global consulting firm specialising in tailored business strategy, technology acceleration, market intelligence, and M&A advisory services for the speciality materials industry, has announced the appointment of two Netherlands-based directors: Erwin Wild and Ruud van der Eerden.
Erwin Wild brings three decades of international experience in the chemical industry. Known for his focus on creating value and solving complex challenges, he combines a passion for innovation with an entrepreneurial mindset to develop holistic paths to success. Erwin Wild has held senior positions at Huntsman Advanced Materials, CVC Thermoset Specialties, AGC Chemicals Europe, and Kemira. Fluent in English, Dutch, and German, he holds a BSc in Chemical Engineering and Organic Chemistry from Saxion University, as well as an EMBA from the Helsinki School of Economics.
“During my career, I have had the privilege to work on the commercialisation of innovative products, new business development, process development, and successful turnaround strategies. I worked closely with the ChemQuest team in a previous role to develop a strategy and roadmap to creating the next level of success, and I was quite impressed with their team’s core knowledge and business savvy. I am excited to be part of a team that brings such great support and clarity, as well as impact to help clients navigate through challenging market circumstances to create sustainable growth,” has stated Erwin Wild.
Ruud van der Eerden is a strategic executive with more than 35 years of experience in global strategy, sales, marketing, technology, regulatory, and business management of speciality resins and polymers in CASE and other markets. He has demonstrated expertise in developing and stress-testing business and commercial strategies, thriving in complex environments to deliver innovative solutions. Ruud van der Eerden has a proven ability to assess how emerging technologies, trade shifts, regulatory changes, and the “green” transition affect value chains and business performance. This expertise has informed strategic and technological decisions for companies such as Synthomer plc and Eastman Chemical Co., as well as HARRPA (the EU Hydrocarbon, Rosin Resins & Pine Chemicals Association), which he has led for more than a decade. He holds a BSc in Chemical Technology from HTS Dordrecht and is fluent in Dutch, English, and German.
“My favourite question is ‘what if? I am fascinated by scenario development and planning, that process of turning scenarios into reality. During my corporate career, I worked on several occasions with ChemQuest on strategic projects as a client. I am excited to build on this combined experience together with the broader ChemQuest team and its clients,” has added Ruud van der Eerden.
“The chemicals industry in Europe is undergoing tumultuous dynamics that will continue for quite some time. Erwin and Ruud have both developed exceptional speciality chemicals-related expertise over the course of their careers. Their perspectives and input will be invaluable as our global clients strive to navigate current conditions and develop strategies for long-term profitable growth,” has concluded Daniel Murad, ChemQuest CEO.