The Syensqo spin-off from Solvay - Ilham Kadri (IPO Stories, Ep. 29)

Our guest in this episode is Dr. Ilham Kadri, the CEO of Syensqo, a global speciality chemicals company listed in Brussels. In 2023, Ilham led the spin-off of Syensqo from Solvay, the 160-year old Belgian chemicals conglomerate. In this interview, Ilham discusses the strategic rationale behind the decision to split Solvay into two separate entities, highlighting the aim to unlock the full potential of both companies. She explains how Solvay, a historic leader in commodity chemicals, and Syensqo, a new entity focused on specialty chemicals, were positioned to pursue their unique growth strategies. The conversation delves into the meticulous planning and execution required for the separation, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder engagement and maintaining operational continuity during a volatile global environment. She highlights Syensqo's focus on innovation and sustainability, detailing its ambitious goals for carbon neutrality and its role in advancing technological solutions. The episode also touches on the broader implications of the spin-off, including the strategic benefits of being a publicly listed company and the impact on stakeholders, from employees to investors. Dr. Kadri's leadership and vision provide a comprehensive view of the complexities involved in creating two independent champions from a long-standing conglomerate. Disclaimer: The discussion in this episode is not financial advice, nor an investment recommendation, nor a solicitation to buy or sell any financial instruments or an offer for financial services or any other transaction. The information contained in the recording has no contractual value and is intended for informational purposes only. Amundsen Investment Management and the participants in this podcast may have holdings in the companies being discussed. Any views expressed are those of the guests only, and not of Amundsen Investment Management.