Eigenmann & Veronelli Group Strengthens Board with Two New Independent Directors to Drive International Growth
In a strategic move to bolster corporate governance and accelerate international expansion, Eigenmann & Veronelli Group (EV) has announced the appointment of two highly experienced independent Non-Executive Directors to its board: Mario Paterlini and Hidde van der Wal. Effective February 2025, these appointments mark a pivotal step in EV’s ongoing commitment to enhancing leadership expertise, fostering innovation, and supporting sustainable growth across its global operations.
As Italy’s leading distributor of specialty chemicals and food ingredients, Eigenmann & Veronelli has long been recognized for its dedication to delivering high-quality solutions tailored to diverse industries. With this latest addition to its five-member board, the company is poised to elevate its governance framework and unlock new opportunities for success on the international stage.
Strategic Appointments to Fuel Growth
The inclusion of Mario Paterlini and Hidde van der Wal reflects EV’s focus on strengthening its leadership team with individuals who bring deep industry knowledge, proven track records, and fresh perspectives. As independent directors, they will play a critical role in guiding the group toward achieving its ambitious goals while ensuring alignment with best practices in corporate governance.
Mario Paterlini: A Leader in Chemicals and Corporate Governance
Mario Paterlini brings decades of experience in the chemicals industry, most notably serving as CEO of Gruppo Sapio since 2010. His career is distinguished by extensive international exposure, particularly in the United States and the EMEA region, where he has successfully navigated complex markets and implemented transformative strategies. Paterlini’s expertise spans key areas such as mergers and acquisitions (M&A), change management, productivity enhancement, and continuous development programming.
Beyond his operational achievements, Paterlini is deeply committed to advancing corporate governance standards. He currently serves as an independent director on the board of Vitale Barberis Canonico, one of Italy’s oldest textile manufacturers, and holds the position of President of Gruppo Idrogeno Vettore Energetico at Federchimica, further underscoring his leadership credentials.
Hidde van der Wal: A Visionary in Global Chemical Distribution
Hidde van der Wal’s appointment adds another layer of depth to EV’s board. With over two decades of leadership experience in the chemicals distribution sector, van der Wal served as CEO of Barentz from 2000 to 2023. Under his stewardship, Barentz evolved from a regional player into a globally recognized specialty distributor with a presence spanning Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Van der Wal’s ability to scale businesses and drive international growth makes him an invaluable asset as EV continues to expand its footprint worldwide.
Leadership Endorsements and Strategic Vision
Commenting on the appointments, Christian Veronelli, Group Chairman of Eigenmann & Veronelli, expressed enthusiasm about the value these new directors will bring:
“We are thrilled to welcome Mario Paterlini and Hidde van der Wal to our Board of Directors. Their extensive experience will strengthen EV’s governance and support our international growth ambitions, in line with our strategic vision.”
Similarly, Gabriele Bonomi, CEO of Eigenmann & Veronelli, highlighted the significance of their contributions:
“I am confident that Mario Paterlini and Hidde van der Wal will make a valuable contribution to EV’s board of directors. Both bring extensive international experience and a diverse skill set, which will significantly enhance our competitiveness. Their unique perspectives, combined with their expertise, will further strengthen our governance model, supporting the continued growth and development of the Group as an international solutions provider.”
About Eigenmann & Veronelli Group
Founded in 1910, Eigenmann & Veronelli Group is a trusted name in the specialty chemicals and food ingredients industry. Headquartered in Rho, Italy, EV operates with a direct presence in key markets, including Italy, Iberia, Turkey, and the UAE, while maintaining a commercial reach across more than 45 countries. In 2024, the group generated a consolidated turnover of €347 million, supported by a workforce of over 350 employees.
With over a century of experience, EV has built a reputation for excellence by combining local market insights with cutting-edge chemical innovations. The company offers a comprehensive portfolio of specialty chemicals and ingredients, alongside tailored application support, marketing solutions, supply chain optimization, technical formulation assistance, and regulatory expertise. These capabilities enable EV to serve a wide range of industries effectively.
A Commitment to Excellence and Innovation
The appointments of Mario Paterlini and Hidde van der Wal underscore Eigenmann & Veronelli’s unwavering commitment to excellence, transparency, and innovation. By reinforcing its board with leaders who embody these values, EV is well-positioned to navigate the challenges and opportunities of an increasingly competitive global landscape.
Looking ahead, the group remains focused on expanding its international presence, enhancing customer satisfaction, and driving sustainable growth. With a strengthened leadership team and a clear strategic vision, Eigenmann & Veronelli is set to solidify its position as a leader in the specialty chemicals and food ingredients sector.
For stakeholders, customers, and partners, this development signals EV’s readiness to embrace the future with confidence. By leveraging the combined expertise of its expanded board, the company aims to deliver even greater value to its clients while contributing positively to the communities it serves.
As Eigenmann & Veronelli embarks on this exciting new chapter, the contributions of Mario Paterlini and Hidde van der Wal promise to be instrumental in shaping the group’s trajectory toward sustained success and global prominence.
