Arxada Appoints Annette Bergknut as Chief People Officer

Basel, Switzerland- September 25, 2023—Arxada, a global, science-based leader in innovative specialty chemicals, announces the appointment of Annette Bergknut as its new Chief People Officer (CPO), effective 25 September. She will report directly to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sanjeev Rastogi. In addition to her role as CPO, Annette will also serve as a member of the company’s Executive Leadership Team.

Annette brings more than 20 years of HR experience to Arxada, having worked for other high-profile, international companies. Annette will be responsible for the further development of employee-centric strategies that align with corporate direction and enhancement of the overall employee experience.

“We are thrilled to welcome Annette to the Arxada team,” said Sanjeev Rastogi, CEO, Arxada. “She has an impressive record in both talent management and leadership development. She will be a valued addition to our team as we continue to evolve as a company, helping us to foster a culture of innovation, collaboration and inclusivity.”

“I am delighted to join Arxada as the Chief People Officer and be a part of this dynamic and innovative organization,” said Annette Bergknut, CPO, Arxada. “The company has a clear commitment to the growth and development of its people- a fact that immediately resonated with me. Together, we will create a place where every individual can thrive, develop and be their best. I look forward to contributing here and making positive impact for both industry and employees.”

Born in The Netherlands, Annette has earned a MSc degree in Psychology: Organizational Behavior and a MA in Business Administration from the University of Nijmegen. Prior to Arxada, she most recently spent five years at the global hygiene company, Diversey – a member of the Bain Capital portfolio. Initially joining as VP of Human Resources for Europe, she was promoted to Chief Human Resource Officer and served on its executive board. She was heavily involved in Diversey’s initial public offering (IPO) in 2021, as well as its merger with Solenis/Platinum Equity earlier this year.

Annette previously spent 18 years at Mars Inc. She held HR roles in The Netherlands, Sweden, the UK, and Denmark, before leading the Dutch HR team for five years. She was then based in Brussels for two years as Regional HR Director Europe and Eurasia – Supply Chain Chocolate, before moving to London as European HR VP for the Food division.