BASF Coatings Names Jens Luehring as Incoming CEO Ahead of Carlyle Transaction

BASF Coatings has announced that Jens Luehring will become Chief Executive Officer once the company’s separation from BASF and subsequent acquisition by Carlyle is completed, expected in the second quarter of 2026. Until the transaction closes, Dr Uta Holzenkamp will continue to lead the business and will support Luehring during the transition to ensure continuity and stability.

Tanaka Maswoswe, Partner at Carlyle, praised Holzenkamp’s contribution, noting that her commitment to employees and customers has been essential throughout the carve out process and preparations for the company’s future as an independent enterprise. He added that her role has been vital in positioning the business for long term success after the transition.

Maswoswe also welcomed the appointment of Luehring, highlighting his strong record of guiding carve outs and building high performing standalone organisations. He said that the combination of Holzenkamp’s foundation and Luehring’s leadership experience offers the new company a solid platform for its next phase of development.

Reflecting on her tenure, Holzenkamp stated that the transformation of BASF Coatings has created a robust base for future growth, supported by strong customer relationships, a committed global team and leading technologies. She noted that the upcoming transition is an appropriate moment for new leadership to drive the company forward.

Luehring expressed his enthusiasm for the role, calling it a pivotal moment for the organisation. He emphasised the company’s strong market position, dedicated workforce and differentiated product offering. His focus will be on accelerating the shift towards an entrepreneurial, performance oriented and fully independent coatings technology leader.

Luehring brings over 20 years of experience in corporate transformation, mergers and acquisitions and finance. His career includes significant time in the industrial and medical gases sector, where he led the carve out and establishment of legacy Linde’s Americas assets as a private equity backed company. Over seven years as President and CEO, he delivered improvements in operations, financial performance and growth.

Holzenkamp, who has led BASF Coatings since 2022, oversees roughly 10,500 employees worldwide. With nearly 30 years of international leadership experience in the coatings, automotive and chemical industries, she is recognised for building strong cultures that support both performance and change.