Rotterdam, 20 October 2016 – Amsterdam Commodities NV (Acomo), the Euronext-listed trading house, announces that Erik Rietkerk has informed the Supervisory Board he will not be available for a new term as CEO after May 2017.
Erik Rietkerk joined Acomo in 2013, switching from the production and trade of palm oil and oleochemical products to the trade in spices, tea, edible seeds and food ingredients. In May 2013, he replaced former managing director Stephane Holvoet.
Bernard Stuivinga, chairman of the Acomo Supervisory Board says: “Erik’s decision does not come as a surprise. We have regular meetings and a very constructive working relationship. We have discussed his personal considerations and we respect his decision.”
In 2013 Rietkerk was appointed for a four year period to run until May 2017. “That was clear to everyone at the time. This is also the reason I have opted to inform the Supervisory Board now that I am not available for a second term. Now the board has more than enough time to find a successor,” says Erik Rietkerk. “I will continue to carry out my duties until May 2017. For this reason, and out of respect for the company, I will not make any further comment about my future plans before that date.”
During Rietkerk’s leadership, the trading house has made two acquisitions and has continued efforts to increase the sustainability of the supply chains in which Acomo’s subsidiaries operate. In 2014, Acomo announced record net profit of € 33.1 million followed by stable earnings of € 32.3 million in 2015.