Martin Brudermüller
Biography
Dr. Martin Brudermüller is a distinguished German chemical industry executive who served as CEO and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE from 2018 to 2024, leading the world's largest chemical company through a transformative period focused on sustainability and innovation. Born on May 5, 1961, in Stuttgart, Brudermüller brings over 36 years of experience at BASF, where he has been instrumental in driving the company's evolution toward greater environmental responsibility and technological advancement. Under his leadership, BASF achieved significant progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, halving absolute emissions since 1990 while doubling production through enhanced energy efficiency and process improvements. As CEO, he championed BASF's commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, positioning the company at the forefront of the chemical industry's sustainability transformation. Brudermüller's strategic vision extended beyond environmental goals to encompass digital transformation, innovation in battery materials for electric vehicles, and expansion in key growth markets, particularly China. His leadership earned him the prestigious 2021 ICIS CEO of the Year Award, recognizing his outstanding achievements in profitability, ESG initiatives, innovation, and strategic acquisitions as voted by industry peers. Since April 2024, he has transitioned to serve as Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Mercedes-Benz Group AG and joined Accenture's Board of Directors, while continuing his influential role in shaping European chemical industry policy as President of the European Chemical Industry Council (Cefic). His comprehensive understanding of both technical and strategic aspects of the chemical industry, combined with his commitment to sustainable innovation, has established him as one of the most respected leaders in global manufacturing.