By transitioning to a standalone model under Luehring’s leadership, the new entity aims to leverage its market-leading innovative technologies to pursue more agile growth outside the broader BASF Group structure.
BASF Coatings has announced that Jens Luehring will take over as Chief Executive Officer following the completion of the company’s sale to Carlyle and the Qatar Investment Authority
(QIA).
The leadership transition marks a significant milestone in the
establishment of the coatings division as a standalone entity. The transaction, first announced in October 2025, is expected to conclude in the second quarter of 2026, pending final regulatory approvals.
Jens Luehring joins the business with over 20 years of experience in corporate transformations and private equity-backed carve-outs. Regarding his proven track record, he previously spent 18 years in the industrial and medical gases sector. His specific carve-out expertise was demonstrated when he successfully led the separation of Linde’s Americas assets, serving as President and CEO of the resulting independent company for seven years. His background as a German national based in the United States includes a career spanning investment banking as well as a decade in CEO and CFO roles.
The current President of BASF Coatings, Uta Holzenkamp, will remain at the helm until the deal closes. Following the handover, she will work alongside Luehring to ensure a seamless transition for the company’s 10,500 global employees and its international customer base.