Ilham Kadri, CEO of Syensqo, elected to the presidency of Cefic

Ilham Kadri, CEO of Syensqo, has been elected Cefic President, succeeding Martin Brudermueller. Ilham Kadri is one of Europe’s most prominent and well-known business leaders. She holds a degree in chemical engineering from L’École des Hauts Polymères in Strasbourg, and a PhD in macromolecular physico-chemistry from Strasbourg’s Louis Pasteur University. Kadri served as Cefic’s Vice President before becoming the President and holds several key positions in business associations around the world.

Ilham Kadri is a world citizen with Moroccan-French roots and professional experience across four continents. During her 30-year career, she has held various positions at leading companies. Her responsibilities have included research & development, strategy, business and digital in industries spanning automotive, aerospace, oil & gas, mining, water desalination, construction, consumer goods, food service, hospitality and healthcare. Ilham Kadri actively speaks out for the role of science, innovation, sustainability, inclusion and diversity, mentoring and promoting female leadership in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. 

“I am honoured to take on this role, in what is a pivotal moment for Europe and Europeans, industry at large and the European chemical industry itself.  I therefore very much look forward to supporting the next generation of European Politicians and the new European Commission Leadership. If I can relate one message already right now - Go vote in June! It is crucial”, Ilham Kadri, Cefic President and CEO of Syensqo, declared.

Ilham Kadri, along with outgoing President Martin Brudermueller, played a key role in the European Industrial Summit, hosting key government officials such as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo and former Italian Prime Minister Enrico Letta. The coming months, Brussels will see a series of Antwerp Dialogues, further exploring the key requests in the Antwerp Declaration.