ROTTERDAM, The Netherlands (July 27, 2022) – IMCD, a leading distributor of speciality chemicals and ingredients, today announces the appointment of Henri Kwon as Managing Director of IMCD Korea, effective August 1st, 2022. With 30 years of experience in management roles in several speciality chemicals and ingredient companies, Henri will be responsible for continuing the growth trajectory of IMCD Korea.
Henri will lead strategic growth ambitions by focusing on expanding new and existing suppliers, driving commercial excellence, exploring opportunities for M&As, developing talents, and further advancing the business's digitalisation. Upon Henri’s appointment, Whawon’s founder, Young-Hee Won, will begin his transition into retirement.
“Since the acquisition of Whawon in 2019, South Korea has proven to have high growth potential for IMCD. We continue the integration process and diversification of the business into more market segments,” comments Andreas Igerl, Asia President of IMCD. “Henri’s valuable knowledge and understanding of the Korean market, from both a manufacturer and distributor point-of-view, is key to leading the team to the next level of growth,” adds Igerl.
“I’m excited to join IMCD as I always have a positive impression of IMCD since our previous interaction in Roquette,” remarks Kwon. “I would like to deliver my heartfelt thanks to Mr. Won, who founded and has grown the Korean business, which helped us open our ambition in the area. I will continue to build on the great foundation that the team has set and uncover more growth opportunities,” adds Kwon.
With a background in Food Science & Technology, Henri started his career as an Account Manager at Doosan Group. He has since progressed to multiple commercial roles with local and regional appointments, having lived in China for seven years. Before joining IMCD, Henri spent 20 years with Roquette, with his last role as Korea’s Country Head and Head of Distribution for Asia.
IMCD Korea and Whawon, an IMCD company, provide sales, marketing, and formulation expertise to customers and suppliers in pharmaceuticals, personal care, coatings, food, nutrition, and other speciality industrial markets. Its office is based in Seoul, and the Pharmaceuticals’ in-house analytical lab provides testing, reliable quality control, and assurance throughout customers’ product development cycle.
About IMCD N.V.
IMCD, based in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, is a market leader in the marketing, sales, and distribution of speciality chemicals and ingredients. Its result-driven professionals provide market focused solutions to suppliers and customers across EMEA, Americas, and Asia-Pacific, offering a range of comprehensive product portfolios, including innovative formulations that embrace industry trends.
Listed at Euronext, Amsterdam (IMCD), IMCD realised revenues of EUR 3,435 million in 2021 with more than 3,700 employees in over 50 countries on six continents. IMCD's dedicated team of technical and commercial experts work in close partnership to tailor best-in-class solutions and provide value through expertise for around 56,000 customers and a diverse range of world class suppliers.
For further information, please visit www.imcdgroup.com.
