Our people
OUR PEOPLE
One Team, One Goal.
At Barentz, our unique team spirit is derived from our shared passion for knowledge of the challenges that our customers face and finding solutions for them. We can achieve this optimally when every single member of our team feels respected, included, and heard – when all our staff can be themselves and give their all to their work every day.
Barentz Board
Terry was appointed interim CEO in May 2024. For more than three decades, Terry has worked in the distribution business. He spent 30 years with Univar Solutions, serving in various global leadership roles. In 2019, Terry joined Maroon Group, which was acquired by Barentz in 2020, as CEO of North America. He held this position until his appointment to the Supervisory Board in March 2023. Terry Hill holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology & Chemistry from Texas Tech University.
Derk-Jan joined Barentz as CFO in 2021, after having significant experience in international financial management. He worked for Ahold Delhaize for over 18 years including as CFO in Central Europe, Latin America, and USA. Before joining Barentz Derk-Jan was Chief Financial Officer at Tony’s Chocolonely. Derk-Jan holds a master’s degree in economics and started his career at General Electric.
With a doctorate in Chemistry and profound experience in the ingredients industry, Torsten leads the Pharmaceutical and Personal Care business activities for Barentz. During his many years with Barentz, he has built strong teams to serve customers optimally.
Kees is holding a master’s degree in Chemical Engineering and drives growth of South America and APAC region. He also has responsibility for Customized Formulation Centers. Previously, Kees has led all Asian and American territories business development activities for Barentz. Starting his career in 2000 at Barentz, Kees has built up years of experience in Food industries at Barentz, Glanbia Nutritionals and Avebe.
With a bachelor’s degree in Food Engineering and two master’s degrees in Food Production and Management, Gökhan has spent the last 20 years in executive roles within the distribution of food ingredients and specialty chemicals. He started his career at Quest International (Netherlands) in 2000 before he joined IMCD Group in 2004. Gökhan joined Barentz in 2019.
Mike joined Barentz in December 2020 with the acquisition of Maroon Group. Having served in leadership and commercial roles with the company since 2004, Mike has extensive experience in the sector, completing and integrating numerous acquisitions and executing our differentiated value proposition.
Lars joined Barentz in October 2024, bringing over 21 years of experience in the ingredient and chemical distribution industry. Prior to joining Barentz, he held several key roles at major global player in the chemical industry, including President Specialties Americas and Global President Material Science and Specialties North America, where he had leadership responsibilities across Germany, Italy, Canada, and the Americas. Lars holds a degree in Economics (BSc) and Business Administration (MBA).
Global Divisional Leadership
With a Bachelor’s degree in Food Engineering and two Master’s degrees in Food Production and Management, Gökhan has spent the last 20 years in executive roles within the distribution of food ingredients and specialty chemicals. He started his career at Quest International (Netherlands) in 2000 before he joined IMCD Group in 2004. Gökhan joined Barentz in 2019.
Anthony joined Barentz in 2011, when Barentz acquired Forum Products Ltd. He was a board member and shareholder. With a degree in Applied Chemistry, he has spent most of his career in sales, product management and senior management roles in the pharmaceutical industry.
Valérie holds an MBA in marketing, a master’s degree in chemical engineering and postgraduate diploma in organic chemistry in France. She has 30 years of experience in life sciences including pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals and personal care sections, along with a strong track record in international B2B sales and marketing. Valérie joined Barentz in 2022 through the acquisition of Unipex, where she was Personal Care Business Unit Manager since 2018. Valérie was appointed Vice President Personal Care for EMEA in October 2024.
Mike joined Barentz in December 2020 with the acquisition of Maroon Group. Having served in leadership and commercial roles with the company since 2004, Mike has extensive experience in the sector, completing and integrating numerous acquisitions and executing our differentiated value proposition.
Regional leadership
Lars joined Barentz in October 2024, bringing over 21 years of experience in the ingredient and chemical distribution industry. Prior to joining Barentz, he held several key roles at major global player in the chemical industry, including President Specialties Americas and Global President Material Science and Specialties North America, where he had leadership responsibilities across Germany, Italy, Canada, and the Americas. Lars holds a degree in Economics (BSc) and Business Administration (MBA).
Mike joined Barentz in December 2020 with the acquisition of Maroon Group. Having served in leadership and commercial roles with the company since 2004, Mike has extensive experience in the sector, completing and integrating numerous acquisitions and executing our differentiated value proposition
Marc startedhis career at Azelis in 2000 and joinedBarentz in 2008 when Barentz acquiredVitablend. He holds a master’s degree inBiology and a MBA. In thelast 16 years Marc had several assignments in Europe and AsiaPacific. He has been appointed CEO AsiaPacific in September 2022.
Elzo was appointed CEO of South America in 2020 and has held leadership roles in the chemical and ingredients distribution industry for two decades. Elzo was a key figure at Tovani Benzaquen, which entered a joint venture with Barentz in 2018, as he played an instrumental role in integrating the two organizations and expanding Barentz’s presence in South America. Under his leadership,Barentz has achieved significant growth while aligning with global strategic goals. Elzo holds a degree in International Affairs from Pontifícia Universidade Católica de São Paulo.